Cursorius temminckii
Temminck's Courser (Cursorius temminckii) is a striking, medium-sized terrestrial bird, typically measuring 19-22 cm (7.5-8.7 in) in length with a wingspan of 45-55 cm (18-22 in) and weighing 40-65 g (1.4-2.3 oz). Its plumage is predominantly sandy-brown, offering excellent camouflage in its dry, open habitats. Key identification marks include a distinctive black crown bordered by a prominent white supercilium, a black eyestripe, and a rich chestnut patch on its lower belly and flanks, contra...
This courser primarily inhabits open, dry grasslands, savannas, and cultivated fields, often favoring areas with short grass or recently burnt ground. It is typically found at low to moderate elevations across its range.
The diet of Temminck's Courser consists almost exclusively of various insects, including beetles, grasshoppers, ants, and termites, as well as spiders. It forages primarily by running and pecking on the ground.
Temminck's Courser is largely diurnal, though it can be active during crepuscular hours, often roosting in open areas offering good visibility. Its foraging strategy involves running rapidly, stopping abruptly, and then visually locating and pecking at prey from the ground, displaying an alert, u...
Temminck's Courser has an extensive breeding and resident range across Sub-Saharan Africa, stretching from Senegal and Mauritania in the west, eastward through the Sahel region, Sudan, and Ethiopia, and then southwards through East Africa to Angola, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and into northern p...
Least Concern
- Temminck's Courser is named after Coenraad Jacob Temminck, a Dutch zoologist and ornithologist. - The name 'courser' refers to its remarkable speed and agility on foot, allowing it to run down prey and evade predators. - Its plumage provides exceptional camouflage, making it incredibly difficul...