Rüppell's korhaan facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Rüppell's korhaan
From Namib-Naukluft National Park
Conservation status
Least Concern (IUCN 3.1)
CITES Appendix II (CITES)
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Aves
Order:	Otidiformes
Family:	Otididae
Genus:	Heterotetrax
Species:	H. rueppelii
Binomial name
Heterotetrax rueppelii (Wahlberg, 1856)
General range: the Namib desert
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Synonyms
Eupodotis rueppellii Heterotetrax rueppelii

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The Rüppell's korhaan (Heterotetrax rueppelii) is a special type of bird. It is also called the Rüppell's bustard. This bird is part of the Otididae family, which includes all bustards. It is named after Wilhelm Rüppell, a German explorer and naturalist.

This small bustard grows to about 60 centimeters long. Its head and neck are grey. It has black stripes on its throat, through its eyes, and on the sides of its neck. Females have less noticeable throat stripes. Its cheeks are white. The body is sandy brown on top and white underneath. Its legs are sandy yellow-brown.

Where Rüppell's Korhaan Lives

Rüppell's korhaan birds live in southwestern Africa. You can find them in parts of Angola and Namibia. They prefer dry places like deserts, open plains, and savannahs. These birds are very good at sensing things around them. This helps them stay safe in their homes.

Favorite Spots in Namibia

In Namibia, you are most likely to see them in certain areas. These include the Namibrand Nature Reserve. They also live at Mirabib and Ganab in the Namib-Naukluft Park. Other places are Bloedkoppie and around Spitzkoppe.

Life Cycle and Diet

Rüppell's korhaan birds usually have one partner for life. Sometimes, they might breed in larger family groups. They can lay eggs all year round. The busiest time for laying eggs is from February to May.

Nests and Eggs

Their nests are built among rocks and stones. Sometimes, they add a little plant cover. A female bird usually lays one to three eggs at a time. Only the female bird sits on the eggs to keep them warm until they hatch.

What They Eat

Rüppell's korhaan birds eat many different things. This means they are omnivores. Their diet mostly includes small creatures without backbones, like termites. They also eat small reptiles. Besides animals, they enjoy eating leaves and seeds. They usually peck at the ground to find their food while walking.

Protecting Rüppell's Korhaan

Bustards, including Rüppell's korhaan, face challenges. Their homes can be lost or changed. This often happens because of farming and other human activities. Illegal hunting also poses a threat, especially when they are breeding.

Why They Are Hard to Study

It is hard for scientists to learn a lot about these birds. They are shy and like to stay hidden. They also move over large areas. Their sandy brown color helps them blend in with their surroundings. This makes them difficult to find and study. Namibia is mostly responsible for helping to protect these birds.

Images for kids

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  An adult male Rüppell's korhaan

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  A young male Rüppell's korhaan