Hunting Cape Francolin

CAPE FRANCOLIN (Pternistis capensis)

Key Characteristics

The largest of our francolin species, Cape Francolin are confined to the south-western regions of the country. Distinguishing characteristics are an overall grey or black appearance, a white-streaked chest and orange to yellow legs. The bill is greyish-black and the lower jaw dull orange.

Habitat

Essentially a Cape fynbos species, they generally occur where there are dense stands of heather, low-growing shrubs or rushes and in areas where riverine vegetation provides sufficient protection. In cultivated areas they may be found in or near pockets of natural vegetation and in or on edges of vleis or drainage lines where there is sufficient cover. They range from sea level to high in the mountains, but avoid open montane fynbos with inadequate cover.