Erckel's Spurfowl

The Erckel's spurfowl, or Erckel's francolin, is a robust game bird belonging to the Phasianidae family. It is the largest African spurfowl, with a striking appearance characterized by chestnut-colored stripes adorning its upper and lower body. The bird's face and bill are black, while the top of its head and the back of its neck boast a rich chestnut hue. Notably, it has white ear coverts and a distinctive white streak behind its eye. The legs are a vibrant yellow, adding to its colorful visage.

Identification Tips

When observing Erckel's spurfowl, look for a bird measuring 38–43 cm in length, with males being slightly larger than females. The males can weigh between 1.05 and 1.59 kg, while a recorded female weighed 1.136 kg. Both sexes share similar plumage, making them indistinguishable in the field. The white markings on the face and the yellow legs are key features for identification.

Habitat

This species is found at high altitudes, ranging from 2,000 to 3,500 meters above sea level. It favors the mountainous terrains, such as those in the Degua Tembien district, where it can be seen in scrublands or forest edges.

Distribution

Native to the northern regions of Eritrea and Ethiopia, as well as northeast Sudan, Erckel's spurfowl has also been introduced to Hawaii and Italy. Its estimated range covers approximately 580,000 km².

Behaviour

Erckel's spurfowl may hunt alone or in pairs. It is often inactive but will run uphill when threatened. The bird is known for its territorial calls, which are emitted from prominent perches such as clifftops and large rocks.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of Erckel's spurfowl are distinctive and can be described as "an insane cackled laughter," accelerating towards the end in a bouncing ball pattern. These calls, consisting of 15–20 notes, are frequently repeated over extended periods.

Breeding

Breeding occurs during the rainy season, with egg-laying periods varying by location. In Ethiopia, eggs are laid in May and from September to November, while in Sudan, the laying period is in April and May.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of Erckel's spurfowl includes a variety of plants such as berries, seeds, and shoots, supplemented with insects.

Conservation status

The Erckel's spurfowl is classified as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), due to its commonality and extensive range.