The grey-winged francolin is a species of bird in the family Phasianidae. It is found in Lesotho and South Africa.
Region
Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs primarily in the high-altitude grasslands and heath-like slopes of the Drakensberg range and across much of Lesotho. It favors dense, tussocky montane grassland with scattered rocks and patches of bracken or heather-like shrubs. Birds often utilize recently burned veld where fresh shoots and exposed insects are abundant. Nests are shallow ground scrapes hidden in thick grass, usually near cover.
Altitude Range
1200–3400 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A highland specialist, the grey-winged francolin inhabits the upland grasslands of the Drakensberg and Lesotho highlands. It is often detected by its loud, cackling dawn calls and by the pale grey panels flashing on the wings in flight. Outside the breeding season it forms small coveys that keep close to dense grass tussocks for cover.
Temperament
wary and secretive
Flight Pattern
explosive flush with short rapid wingbeats, then dropping back into cover
Social Behavior
Outside the breeding season it gathers in small family coveys that feed and roost together. Breeding occurs in the summer rains, typically in monogamous pairs, with the nest concealed on the ground. Chicks are precocial and follow adults soon after hatching.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A loud, cackling series of accelerating notes, often delivered at dawn and dusk from a slight rise or rock. Contact calls within coveys are softer clucks and chirrs given while feeding.
