The search for Double-spurred Francolin/ Spurfowl

Mohammed Hilmi and I set off to look for for Double-spurred Francolin 15-20 miles inland from Rabat.  

We visited a couple of sites, with no sign nor sound, although we did see 5 Ferruginous Duck,  heard 3 Black-Crowned Tchagra and saw an unexpected flock of 41 Stone Curlew. 

At the last stop, around 12.30, after walking around for about an hour, and with the heat of the day increasing, our energy was fading and out stomachs calling for lunch, we headed back to the van.  As we approached the van, two Double-spurred Francolins broke cover.  On seeing us, they scuttled back into the cover of the bushes.  But they weren't done, teasing us yet, as Mohammed moved toward along a higher line, they broke cover once more, pausing for a moment on the track in front of me allowing views and a quick photograph.



Another challenge met!  It took 5 hours in total but they gave themselves up at the final hurdle.  This species is much bigger than I expected.  I had thought they would be closer to partridge size but are much larger.  Also here, 17 Barbary partridges with 2 Black-crowned Tchgara heard.


One of the 41 Stone Curlews discovered en route.


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