Shelley's francolin is a species of bird in the family Phasianidae. The species is named after Sir Edward Shelley, cousin of George Ernest Shelley. IOC 15.1 recognizes the following subspecies:S. s. uluensis S. s. macarthuri S. s. shelleyi
Region
East Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily in dry to semi-arid savanna, open woodland, and Acacia–Commiphora bushland, as well as grassy clearings and edges of cultivation. Prefers areas with a mosaic of grass and low shrubs that provide both foraging and cover. Often uses termite mounds, stony slopes, and road verges for feeding. Typically avoids dense forest and very open treeless plains.
Altitude Range
0–2200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Shelley's francolin is a ground-dwelling gamebird of East African savannas and bushland, named for Sir Edward Shelley. It usually keeps to cover and explodes into flight only when flushed, then drops back quickly to the ground. Pairs or small coveys are most often seen at dawn and dusk when they call responsively across territories. The species comprises several subspecies that vary subtly in tone and pattern across its range.
In Ithala Game Reserve
Subspecies S. s. uluensis, illustration by Keulemans, 1893
Temperament
wary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with an explosive flush, followed by a brief glide
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family coveys outside the breeding season. Nests on the ground in a shallow scrape concealed by grass or shrubs. Likely forms monogamous pairs during breeding, with the female incubating and both adults guarding brood.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A sharp, ringing series of cackling notes given mostly at dawn and dusk, often in antiphonal duet between mates. Calls carry well over open country and are used to advertise territory and maintain contact.
Plumage
Warm brown to rufous-brown overall with fine black barring and buff vermiculations; underparts buff with dark chevrons giving a scaled look. The throat is pale, often whitish, bordered by a darker malar line. Tail short and slightly rusty; wings rounded. Sexes are similar, with females slightly duller and finer-patterned.
Diet
Takes a mixed diet of grass seeds, grains, green shoots, and various invertebrates such as termites, beetles, and ants. Frequently scratches in leaf litter and loose soil to expose seeds and insects. Will opportunistically forage along tracks and at the edges of cultivated fields.
Preferred Environment
Feeds on the ground in grassy patches interspersed with shrubs and in open bushland. Also forages around termite mounds, stony slopes, and along field margins where cover is nearby.
