The double-banded sandgrouse is a species of predominantly terrestrial, or ground-dwelling, bird in the family Pteroclidae. It is found in arid parts of southern Africa.
Region
Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs in arid and semi-arid zones including the Kalahari and Namib peripheries, southwestern Angola, much of Namibia, Botswana, western Zimbabwe, and northwestern South Africa. Prefers open, stony or sandy plains with sparse grass and low scrub, thornveld edges, and gravel flats. Often found near dry riverbeds, tracks, and waterholes but avoids dense woodland and high dunes. Tends to use areas with scattered shrubs for cover and open ground for feeding.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Males have specially adapted belly feathers that soak up water, allowing them to carry it back to chicks—an unusual trait among birds. The species is crepuscular, flying swiftly to waterholes at dawn and dusk. Its cryptic, sandy plumage blends with arid ground, making it hard to spot when it freezes among stones and scrub.
Male in South Africa
Temperament
wary and alert
Flight Pattern
fast, direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family parties, sometimes loose groups near water. Largely monogamous; the nest is a simple ground scrape with minimal lining. Chicks are precocial and mobile soon after hatching; males transport water to them using specialized belly feathers.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are carrying, churring or cackling notes given in flight, especially around dawn and dusk near water. Also emits soft, rolling contact calls within groups. Vocalizations are functional and far-carrying rather than melodious.
Plumage
Sandy to buff upperparts finely mottled and barred, offering excellent camouflage on stony ground. Males show two narrow black breast bands separated by a pale band; females are more heavily barred and lack distinct double bands. Head is patterned with pale and dark stripes and a clean, buffy face. Underparts are warm buff with fine markings, tail pointed.
Diet
Primarily granivorous, taking seeds of grasses and forbs gleaned from the ground. Also consumes small buds and shoots when available. Grit is swallowed to aid digestion, and the species may occasionally take small invertebrates, particularly in the breeding season.
Preferred Environment
Feeds on open, bare or sparsely vegetated ground, including gravel flats, short grasslands, and along vehicle tracks. Often forages within short distances of cover but prefers unobstructed sightlines.
