Grey-winged Francolin
Scleroptila afra
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<birdfyi-bird slug="scleroptila-afra"></birdfyi-bird>About
A medium Phasianidae francolin (~405 g) of montane fynbos, highland grassland, and scrub in South Africa and Lesotho. Distinguished by its grey wings visible in flight. Inhabits rocky slopes and grassland; feeds on grass seeds, bulbs, and invertebrates. Calls with a characteristic rattling phrase. Least Concern.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 31.6 cm | 12.4 in |
| Weight | 405.1666666666667 g | 14.29 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Brown above with buff shaft streaks; pale underparts with dense dark brown streaking; grey primaries distinctive in flight (lacking rufous of related species); white throat; yellow-orange bill; red legs.
Habitat & Range
Geographic Range
Endemic to the Cape Floristic Region of South Africa; resident of fynbos and montane scrub in the Western and Eastern Cape.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivorous; eats seeds, roots, invertebrates, and plant matter in South African fynbos and mountain grassland.
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Nest type: SC. Incubation: 21-23 days. Fledging: 35-42 days.
Clutch Size
3-10
Sound
Song
Loud, staccato 'krak-krak-KRAK' calls; S African fynbos and mountain grassland species. Alarm is rapid harsh cackle. Pairs call in unison. Contact calls low clucking.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes (Gamebirds) |
| Family | Phasianidae (Pheasants & Partridges) |
| Genus | Scleroptila |
| Species | Scleroptila afra |
Distribution
Grey-winged Francolin has been recorded in 1 countries.
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External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Grey-winged Francolin eat?
Where does the Grey-winged Francolin live?
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How does the Grey-winged Francolin nest?
What does the Grey-winged Francolin sound like?
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Similar Birds
Other species in the Phasianidae family