About the Double banded courser
The Double-banded Courser (Rhinoptilus africanus) is a bird species found in parts of sub-Saharan Africa, known for its cryptic plumage and ground-dwelling habits.
Habitat
Double-banded Coursers typically inhabit dry and arid habitats, including sandy deserts, semi-desert scrublands, grasslands, and open savannas. They are well adapted to life in these harsh environments and are often found in areas with sparse vegetation and sandy or rocky substrates. These courser's are primarily ground-dwelling birds, camouflaged against their surroundings, and are known to be active during the cooler parts of the day.
Length
Double-banded Coursers are relatively small birds, measuring approximately 20 to 25 centimeters (8 to 10 inches) in length. They have a slender build with long legs, a short tail, and a distinctive patterned plumage that provides excellent camouflage against their habitat. Their upperparts are typically sandy or buff-colored with intricate patterns, while their underparts are paler with bold black markings, including two prominent black bands across the chest and belly.
Best Viewing
The best places to view Double-banded Coursers are in their native habitats within their range. Look for them in dry and arid habitats such as sandy deserts, semi-desert scrublands, and open grasslands where they are commonly found. These coursers are often seen foraging for food on the ground, using their long legs to swiftly move across the sandy or rocky substrate in search of insects and other small prey.