The bronze-winged courser or violet-tipped courser is a species of bird in the family Glareolidae. This species is named for its characteristic bronze-tipped feathers that are visible during flight. It is found living throughout Sub-Saharan Africa, inhabiting semi-arid savannas and woodlands. This is a nocturnal species which mainly feeds on ground-dwelling insects. Bronze-winged coursers are typically solitary, only forming monogamous pairs for breeding. A female may produce 2-3 eggs per clutch, and the chicks receive parental care from both sexes when young. The bronze-winged courser is considered of Least Concern for conservation status, and is thought to be a very stable species.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs widely across semi-arid savannas and open deciduous woodlands, including areas with sparse grass, leaf litter, and scattered shrubs. Favors sandy or well-drained soils and patchy understory that allow unobstructed running. Frequently uses recently burned ground and tracks or clearings for foraging at night. Avoids dense forest and very tall, closed grass. Roosts by day in shade under bushes or small trees, relying on cryptic plumage.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The bronze-winged courser is a nocturnal member of the pratincole and courser family, noted for a subtle bronze-violet sheen on the primaries visible in flight. It relies on excellent camouflage, crouching motionless by day among leaf litter and open woodland floor. After rains it often gathers where termites and other insects emerge, running swiftly to seize prey. Its large, dark eyes are an adaptation to low-light foraging.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flight
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, becoming most active at dusk and during the night. Forms monogamous pairs in the breeding season, nesting on the ground with minimal lining. Typical clutches are 2 eggs, well camouflaged; both sexes share incubation and chick care. Young are precocial and rely on cryptic coloration and parental guidance to avoid predators.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Calls are soft, whistled notes and trills given mainly at night, often carrying over open savanna. Vocalizations increase after rainfall and during territorial or courtship activity.
