Campocolinus albogularis
The White-throated Francolin, Campocolinus albogularis, is a relatively small and elusive gamebird native to sub-Saharan Africa, typically measuring between 20-25 cm (8-10 inches) in length with a weight around 200-300 grams. Its plumage is characterized by a distinctive pure white throat, contrasting with brownish-grey upperparts heavily mottled and streaked with black and rufous, providing excellent camouflage against its grassy habitat. Chestnut flanks with white barring are another key id...
Primarily inhabits various open grasslands, savannas, cultivated fields, and open woodlands, typically found at elevations ranging from sea level up to 1,800 meters (6,000 feet). It shows a preference for areas with scattered bushes and tussocks that provide cover.
Omnivorous, feeding primarily on a variety of small invertebrates like insects (termites, ants, beetles), supplemented by seeds, shoots, tubers, and bulbs obtained by scratching the ground.
White-throated Francolins are largely crepuscular and diurnal, most active during early mornings and late afternoons, spending the hotter parts of the day resting in dense cover. They are adept foragers, meticulously scratching and pecking at the ground for food, often alongside small family grou...
The White-throated Francolin has a widespread distribution across sub-Saharan Africa, predominantly in a belt from West Africa eastward to East Africa, and south into Central Africa. Its range extends from Senegal and Gambia in the west, through countries like Mali, Niger, Chad, Sudan, and Ethiop...
Least Concern
- The White-throated Francolin was recently reclassified from the genus 'Francolinus' to 'Campocolinus', reflecting a deeper understanding of its evolutionary lineage among African francolins. - Despite its shy nature and preference for dense cover, its loud, distinctive 'churring' or 'kwa-kwa' c...