Djibouti Spurfowl
Pternistis ochropectus
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<birdfyi-bird slug="pternistis-ochropectus"></birdfyi-bird>The Djibouti Spurfowl (Pternistis ochropectus) is a bird species in the family Phasianidae (pheasants & partridges), within the order Galliformes (gamebirds). Recorded measurements include a wingspan of 39.5 cm and a weight of 707 g. The IUCN Red List classifies it as Critically Endangered.
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About
One of Africa's rarest birds, this large Phasianidae spurfowl (~707 g) is endemic to two small juniper forest patches in Djibouti. Population estimated at fewer than 500 individuals. Feeds on seeds, roots, and invertebrates in dense juniper understorey. Critically Endangered from overgrazing and firewood cutting.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 39.5 cm | 15.6 in |
| Weight | 707.0 g | 24.94 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Brown above with pale buff shaft streaks; pale ochre-buff breast contrasting with white streaked belly; distinctive ochre wash on chest differs from other spurfowl; red facial skin; red legs; critically rare Djibouti endemic.
Habitat & Range
Geographic Range
Endemic to Djibouti and adjacent northern Somalia; restricted to the Day Forest and surrounding highlands; one of Africa's rarest birds.
Diet & Feeding
Feeds on seeds, plant material, and invertebrates in juniper forest and scrub of Djibouti; critically endangered.
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Nest type: SC.
Clutch Size
4-6
Sound
Song
Loud, harsh 'krak-KRAAK' calls from Djibouti Forêt du Day; critically endangered with very small world population. Alarm is explosive cackling. One of Africa's rarest birds; poorly documented vocally.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes (Gamebirds) |
| Family | Phasianidae (Pheasants & Partridges) |
| Genus | Pternistis |
| Species | Pternistis ochropectus |
Distribution
Djibouti Spurfowl has been recorded in 1 countries.
countries highlighted
External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Djibouti Spurfowl eat?
Where does the Djibouti Spurfowl live?
Is the Djibouti Spurfowl endangered?
How does the Djibouti Spurfowl nest?
What does the Djibouti Spurfowl sound like?
How big is the Djibouti Spurfowl?
What order and family does the Djibouti Spurfowl belong to?
Similar Birds
Other species in the Phasianidae family