Pternistis afer
The Red-necked Spurfowl (*Pternistis afer*) is a striking and vociferous gamebird native to a wide swathe of sub-Saharan Africa, instantly recognizable by its vivid red facial skin and bare neck. This robust, terrestrial pheasant-like bird typically measures between 25-38 cm (10-15 inches) in length and weighs 250-700 grams (0.5-1.5 lbs). Its plumage is predominantly mottled brown and grey, providing excellent camouflage against the arid and scrubby landscapes it inhabits, with fine streaking...
This species primarily inhabits open woodlands, savannas, grasslands with scattered bushes, and dense scrubland, often found near water sources or cultivation at low to moderate elevations.
The Red-necked Spurfowl's diet is omnivorous, primarily consisting of seeds, grains, roots, tubers, bulbs, and a variety of insects, which it forages for by scratching and probing the ground.
Red-necked Spurfowls are typically diurnal, with peak activity during the early morning and late afternoon, often roosting in trees or dense bushes overnight. They forage primarily by scratching vigorously at the ground with their strong feet, probing leaf litter and soft soil for food, often mov...
The Red-necked Spurfowl (*Pternistis afer*) boasts a remarkably widespread distribution across sub-Saharan Africa, predominantly as a resident, non-migratory species. Its extensive breeding range stretches from Senegal in West Africa, eastwards through the Sahel region and Central Africa, extendi...
Least Concern
- The Red-necked Spurfowl's raucous, cackling call is one of the most characteristic and iconic sounds of the African savanna, often heard at dawn and dusk. - Despite its relatively small size, the spurs on its legs can be surprisingly sharp and are used for defense and in territorial disputes. -...