The white-bellied bustard or white-bellied korhaan is an African species of bustard. It is widespread in sub-Saharan Africa in grassland and open woodland habitats. Despite its wide distribution and easily identifiable characteristics, very few studies have been conducted on this species and little is known about its life history and behavior.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa
Typical Environment
Occupies open savannas, lightly wooded grasslands, and bushy plains across West, East, and parts of Southern Africa. It uses mosaics of short to medium-height grasses interspersed with scattered shrubs or acacias, avoiding dense forest and true deserts. Recently burned areas are frequently selected for foraging as new growth attracts insects. It persists in some pastoral and lightly cultivated landscapes where cover remains patchy. Ground nesting requires relatively undisturbed patches with good visibility.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the white-bellied korhaan, this bustard relies heavily on camouflage, often crouching and freezing rather than flushing until the last moment. Males give far-carrying display calls at dawn and dusk and perform ground displays in open patches. It often favors recently burned grasslands where new shoots and exposed insects are abundant. Like many bustards, it nests on the ground and is vulnerable to disturbance and predation at the nest.
E. s. canicollis, male, Sweetwaters Game Reserve, Kenya
Male from Maasai Mara, Kenya
E. s. erlangeri, female, Serengeti, Tanzania
E. s. erlangeri, male, Serengeti, Tanzania
Temperament
wary and secretive
Flight Pattern
strong flier with rapid wingbeats followed by short glides
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs; small loose groups may form where food is concentrated. Ground nester with a simple scrape concealed in grass; clutch is typically one to two eggs. Males are polygynous and display from prominent open spots within their home range.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Males give a series of deep, resonant booms and popping notes that carry over the savanna at dawn and dusk. Calls can be interspersed with harsher cackling notes during display, often delivered from the ground or low rises.
