The red-winged francolin is a species of bird in the family Phasianidae. It is found in Angola, Burundi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Rwanda, South Africa, Eswatini, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia.
Region
East and Southern Africa
Typical Environment
This species inhabits montane and upland grasslands, moorlands, and grassy slopes, often with scattered shrubs. It prefers rank or tussocky grass that offers cover, and frequently uses burned or grazed patches for foraging. It also occurs along field margins, fallow lands, and pastures, especially near water. In higher elevations it occupies Drakensberg and similar highland zones, while farther north it uses comparable upland grassland mosaics. It generally avoids dense forests and very arid open plains.
Altitude Range
800–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The red-winged francolin is a ground-dwelling gamebird known for the rich rufous patches on its wings that flash in flight. It typically forms small coveys outside the breeding season and relies on dense grass cover to hide from predators. During breeding, pairs become territorial and give loud, ringing calls at dawn and dusk. It is often encountered along edges of montane grasslands and cultivated fields.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats followed by a low, fast glide
Social Behavior
Outside the breeding season it forms small coveys that keep tight to cover and flush only when approached closely. Breeding pairs are territorial and nest on the ground in a concealed scrape lined with vegetation. Chicks are precocial and follow adults soon after hatching. Roosting often occurs on the ground or low on sheltered slopes.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A loud, ringing series of cackles and chattering notes, often delivered at dawn and dusk. Calls may be given antiphonally by pairs and carry far across open grassland.
Plumage
Densely mottled and vermiculated brown, buff, and black with a conspicuous rufous-red wing panel most obvious in flight. Underparts are finely barred; face shows paler buff tones with a subtle pale eyebrow and throat. Feathers are compact and provide excellent camouflage in grassland.
Diet
Feeds on a mix of grass seeds, bulbs, corms, shoots, and leaves, supplemented with insects such as beetles, termites, and grasshoppers. During the breeding season it takes more animal prey to meet protein demands. It scratches at the ground and probes among tussocks to uncover food. Opportunistically uses recently burned ground to glean seeds and invertebrates.
Preferred Environment
Forages along grassland edges, recently burned or lightly grazed patches, and agricultural margins. Frequently uses areas with mixed cover that allow quick access to shelter.
