Cape spurfowl
Scientific name: Pternistis capensis
- How weight is recorded: Whole weight
Field notes
Appearance
Stocky game bird with dark grey-brown plumage and fine black barring throughout. Males are larger and heavier with prominent red facial wattles and spurs on the legs; females are duller with reduced wattles.
Size and weight
Males 27–30 cm, 340–410 g; females 25–28 cm, 280–350 g.
Habitat
Cape spurfowl inhabit rocky hillsides, scrubland, and fynbos vegetation from sea level to 2,000 m elevation. They favour areas with scattered boulders and dense shrub cover interspersed with open ground.
Distribution
Endemic to the southwestern Cape region of South Africa, primarily in fynbos and allied scrubland habitats of the Western Cape.
Diet
Primarily seeds, bulbs, and plant shoots gleaned from the ground; insects and small invertebrates taken opportunistically, especially during breeding season.
Behaviour
Diurnal and crepuscular, most vocal and active at dawn and dusk. Highly terrestrial, running swiftly through cover; pairs or small coveys, more gregarious outside breeding season.
Hunting tips
Look for tracks (three forward toes, short stride) and droppings (elongate, often whitewashed) along sandy paths and soft ground near water. Approach rocky outcrops and dense patches quietly at first and last light, moving slowly to flush birds within range. Use terrain folds and boulders for cover; birds often run upslope when disturbed.
Whole weight
This species is logged by whole weight — the animal weighed entire, as taken.
Where it is hunted
Listed as huntable in 1 country in Huntify.
Names in other languages
Current language: en
These field notes are general species knowledge, not legal advice. Always check the current seasons, quotas and firearm rules where you hunt.