Ardeotis arabs
The Arabian Bustard (Ardeotis arabs) is a truly impressive and stately ground bird, one of the largest flying birds in its native range. Males typically stand 70-90 cm tall, with a formidable wingspan of up to 180 cm, and can weigh between 10-18 kg, while females are noticeably smaller, generally 5-7 kg. Their plumage features a mottled greyish-brown back and wings, a pristine white belly, and a grey head and neck, often highlighted by a distinct black cap and a white supercilium. Adult males...
Occupies arid and semi-arid grasslands, savannas, open thorny scrublands, and sometimes cultivated fields. Primarily found at low to moderate elevations, typically below 2,000 meters.
An omnivorous species, feeding primarily on a wide variety of large insects such as locusts, grasshoppers, and beetles. They also consume small vertebrates like lizards, snakes, and rodents, alongside a significant amount of plant material including seeds, berries, leaves, and flowers, foraging b...
Arabian Bustards are predominantly diurnal, spending their days foraging and are largely ground-dwelling, typically roosting on the ground, often under sparse cover. Their foraging strategy involves a slow, deliberate walk, meticulously scanning the ground for prey and plant matter. During the br...
The Arabian Bustard is largely a resident species, primarily distributed across the Sahel region of Africa and parts of the Arabian Peninsula. Its African breeding range spans from Mauritania, Senegal, and Gambia eastward through Mali, Niger, Chad, Sudan, South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Eritrea. Withi...
Near Threatened
- The Arabian Bustard is one of the heaviest flying birds in its range, with males capable of reaching up to 18 kg. - Males perform an elaborate 'balloon dance' during courtship, inflating a large throat sac and fanning their tail over their back to impress females. - Despite being capable fliers...