The white-throated francolin is a species of bird in the family Phasianidae.
Region
West and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs in Guinea and Sudan savannas, open woodland edges, and tall grasslands, including fallow fields and lightly cultivated areas. Prefers areas with a mosaic of grass cover and scattered shrubs or trees, often near watercourses or termitaria. Frequently uses recently burned patches for foraging, returning to denser cover for roosting and nesting. Avoids deep forest and very arid open desert.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A shy ground-dwelling francolin of the family Phasianidae, it is most often detected by its loud, repetitive calls at dawn and dusk. It often forms pairs or small coveys and relies on dense grass for cover, exploding into short, fast flight when flushed. The species adapts to a range of savanna and woodland-edge habitats and can persist in lightly cultivated landscapes.
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
explosive takeoff with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family coveys that keep close to dense cover. Nests are shallow scrapes on the ground hidden in tall grass, with the female incubating while the male often acts as a sentinel. Clutches are typically several eggs, and chicks are precocial, following the adults soon after hatching.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocal, especially at dawn and dusk, giving a loud, repetitive, cackling series of notes. Pairs may duet antiphonally, and alarm calls are sharp clucks given when flushed.
