Galloperdix bicalcarata
The Sri Lanka Spurfowl (Galloperdix bicalcarata) is a striking member of the pheasant family (Phasianidae), endemic to the island nation of Sri Lanka. Males, measuring approximately 37 cm, boast a dark brown plumage heavily spotted and streaked with white on the back and flanks, a chestnut belly, and prominent bright red legs and bill. A key identifier for males are the two sharp, bony spurs on each leg, a feature from which its scientific name 'bicalcarata' (two-spurred) is derived. Females ...
This spurfowl primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests, particularly in areas with dense undergrowth. It is typically found in the foothills and lower montane regions of Sri Lanka.
Their diet consists mainly of invertebrates such as termites, ants, beetles, and other insects, supplemented with seeds, berries, and fallen fruits gleaned from the forest floor.
The Sri Lanka Spurfowl is a notoriously secretive, diurnal ground-dweller, usually observed singly, in pairs, or small family groups foraging in the leaf litter. At night, they roost in trees or dense bushes, ascending with short, explosive flights. Foraging involves vigorous scratching and diggi...
The Sri Lanka Spurfowl is strictly endemic to Sri Lanka, distributed across the island's wet zone and intermediate zones. It primarily inhabits lowland and submontane evergreen forests, extending its range from sea level up to elevations of approximately 1200 meters, though occasional records exi...
Least Concern
- The Sri Lanka Spurfowl is one of only three species of spurfowl in the world, and the only one endemic to Sri Lanka. - Its scientific name, 'bicalcarata', directly translates to 'two-spurred', referring to the two prominent spurs on each leg of the male. - Despite its relatively large size, it ...