Fauna
Bird

Kori Bustard

Ardeotis kori

Also known as Paauw

Kori bustards stride deliberately across open African savannas, constantly scanning the ground for insects, small reptiles, and plant material. During the breeding season, males perform spectacular courtship displays by inflating their necks like white balloons, fanning their tail feathers, and emitting deep booming calls. Despite being among the heaviest living birds capable of flight, they prefer walking and take to the air only when pressed by danger.

HeavyweightSavannaTerrestrial
Kori Bustard reference1 / 7
(c) Jan Ebr & Ivana Ebrová, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Jan Ebr & Ivana Ebrová · cc-by
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Near ThreatenedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNear ThreatenedRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyLocusts, Lizards, Acacia gum
Predators
  • Lions
  • Leopards
  • Jackals
ThreatsHabitat loss, power line collisions, poaching, agricultural expansion
HabitatsOpen grasslands, dry savannas, arid shrublands
Life span20–30 years
Classification
  1. FamilyOtididae
  2. SpeciesArdeotis kori
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Capable of delivering a sharp peck if cornered; observe safely from a vehicle or distance.
What to notice
Recognized by its massive body, black crest, greyish plumage, and stately walking stride across open terrain.
Support conservation
Remain in vehicles on game drives to avoid disturbing nesting or displaying individuals.
Responsible observation
  • Viewing Distance: Keep a respectful distance, as sudden approaches cause them to walk away quietly.
  • Savanna Spotting: Look for tall, crest-headed silhouettes moving slowly through low grass in early morning.
  • Breeding Season: Watch for inflated white neck displays on prominent ridges during courtship.
Related species
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