Houbara bustard facts for kids

The houbara bustard (Chlamydotis undulata), also known as the African houbara, is a large bird that belongs to the bustard family. These amazing birds live in dry, open areas across a wide range, from the Canary Islands and North Africa all the way to Iran and western Pakistan. They are well-adapted to life in deserts and semi-deserts.

The Houbara Bustard

The houbara bustard is a fascinating bird known for its unique appearance and behaviors. It's a medium-sized bustard, which means it's a type of bird that usually lives on the ground in open landscapes.

What They Look Like

Houbara bustards have a sandy brown color on their backs, which helps them blend in with their desert surroundings. Their undersides are white. They have long legs and a long neck, which helps them see over tall grasses. A special feature is the black and white stripes on the sides of their neck, which they can puff out during courtship displays. Males are generally a bit larger than females.

Where They Live

These birds are found in various dry habitats. Their range includes the Canary Islands, parts of North Africa like Morocco, Algeria, and Egypt, and then eastward through the Middle East to countries like Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Pakistan. They prefer open plains, semi-deserts, and sandy areas with scattered shrubs.

Their Life Cycle

Houbara bustards are known for their interesting breeding rituals. During the breeding season, males perform elaborate displays to attract females. They puff out their neck feathers and run around in circles, trying to impress potential mates.

After mating, the female lays her eggs directly on the ground, often in a small scrape or hollow. She usually lays two to four eggs. The female takes care of the eggs and the young chicks all by herself. The chicks hatch after about 23 to 28 days and are able to move around shortly after. They grow quickly and learn to find food with their mother's guidance.

What They Eat

Houbara bustards are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and animals. Their diet mainly consists of insects, especially beetles, ants, and grasshoppers. They also eat small lizards, snakes, and even tiny rodents. For plants, they munch on seeds, berries, and green shoots. They are very good at finding food in their dry habitats.

Why They Are Special

These birds are incredibly tough and can survive in harsh desert conditions. They are also known for their strong flight, even though they spend a lot of time on the ground. Sadly, the houbara bustard faces challenges like habitat loss and hunting, which means their numbers are decreasing in some areas. Conservation efforts are important to protect these unique birds for future generations.

Images for kids

• 

  Canarian houbara in Lanzarote, Canary Islands

• 

  Houbara bustard egg in the collection of the Museum Wiesbaden

See also

In Spanish: Hubara para niños