The blue korhaan or blue bustard is a species of bird in the family Otididae which is native to South Africa. Its call is a series of frog-like croaks, usually uttered in flight. Its natural habitat is plateau grassland, dry shrubland, arable land and pastureland. Its preferred habitat is one with short grassland and flat topography.
Region
Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs mainly on South Africa’s central plateau, especially in open short-grass pastures, arable fields, and dry shrub-steppe. It uses lightly grazed to well-grazed grassland with sparse cover and avoids tall swards and rugged, rocky hills. Agricultural mosaics with stubble, fallow, and pasture are frequently occupied, provided sightlines remain open. Breeding territories are typically on flat or gently undulating ground with minimal shrub encroachment.
Altitude Range
600–2000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The blue korhaan (blue bustard) is endemic to South Africa and is often first detected by its frog-like croaking call, frequently given in display flights. It favors short, open grassland and flat farmland, where its mottled back makes it remarkably cryptic when standing still. When flushed, it shows bold white wing panels that contrast with darker primaries. Pairs defend territories and nest on the ground in shallow scrapes.
Southern Free State, South Africa
Temperament
wary and cryptic
Flight Pattern
strong flier with direct flight and short rapid wingbeats followed by brief glides
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly, in pairs, or small family groups; pairs defend territories during breeding. Nest is a shallow ground scrape placed in very short grass, typically with 1–2 eggs. The female incubates while the male patrols the territory nearby, and chicks are precocial and mobile soon after hatching.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are a series of coarse, frog-like croaks, often delivered during display flights over the territory. Also gives harsh, barking notes when alarmed or during territorial interactions.
