Tibetan Sandgrouse

The Tibetan sandgrouse, a member of the sandgrouse family, is a robust bird with a rather pigeon-like head and neck but a more compact body. It measures approximately 30–41 cm in length, sporting long pointed wings and a pin tail. The species is characterized by an orange face, a finely barred grey breast, neck, and crown, and a contrasting white belly. The underwings are notably black.

Identification Tips

Males can be distinguished by their unspotted buff wings, while females exhibit barred wing coverts and upperparts, and a more barred upper belly. Juveniles are recognizable by their absence of the tail pin, narrower barrings, and a less vibrant orange face. The species' white belly and dark underwings set it apart from the similar Pallas's sandgrouse, especially where their ranges overlap. The feet of the Tibetan sandgrouse are unique, with three front toes fused together and feathered upper surfaces, resembling a paw more than a typical avian foot.

Habitat

This species is typically found on barren sandy plains in close proximity to water sources.

Distribution

The Tibetan sandgrouse inhabits mountain ranges across Central Asia, including Tibet, Central China, and the Himalayas.

Behaviour

These birds are social, forming loose flocks. They exhibit fast and direct flight, often emitting a clanging double note. They are known to visit watering holes at dawn and dusk, with dawn being the more common time. Their foraging occurs in the morning and afternoon on semi-desert plains, and during midday, they may be found basking in the sun in small depressions on the ground. They are generally not wary, particularly during their midday rest.

Breeding

Breeding occurs from May to June on arid stony plateaus and ridges, with nests often sited near the top of a ridge on the leeward side. The nest is a simple ground scrape where three pale brown elliptical eggs with cryptic markings are laid. While nests are typically exposed, they can occasionally be found sheltered by stones or grass. The young are precocial, moving with the flock shortly after hatching, and when threatened, adults perform distraction displays as the chicks crouch and freeze.

Diet and Feeding

Their diet consists of seeds, grass, buds, and legumes.

Conservation status

Despite a decreasing population, the Tibetan sandgrouse is classified as "Least Concern" by the IUCN due to its large range and the relatively slow rate of population decline.