Udzungwa Partridge
Xenoperdix udzungwensis
An unusual forest-dwelling partridge with a tiny range in the mountains of central Tanzania. The back is brown and barred, the underparts are gray with black scallops, and the bill is red. Found very locally in montane forest, especially in steep areas with bamboo. Somewhat similar to Scaly Francolin, but separated by smaller size and far more colorful markings. Most often detected by call: a repeated “kur-kur-kree” chant.
Identification
An unusual forest-dwelling partridge with a tiny range in the mountains of central Tanzania. The back is brown and barred, the underparts are gray with black scallops, and the bill is red. Found very locally in montane forest, especially in steep areas with bamboo. Somewhat similar to Scaly Francolin, but separated by smaller size and far more colorful markings. Most often detected by call: a repeated “kur-kur-kree” chant.
Taxonomy
Genus: Xenoperdix; Family: Phasianidae; Order: Galliformes.
- Scientific name
- Xenoperdix udzungwensis
- Order
- Galliformes
- Family
- Phasianidae
- Genus
- Xenoperdix
Photos
Distribution
Other Birds

White-backed Woodpecker
Dendrocopos leucotos
Marginally larger than Great Spotted Woodpecker, but appears distinctly longer-billed. White back in some subspecies is not always obvious when perched but easy to see in flight. Streaky flanks are distinctive. Also note varying amounts of red on the lower belly and undertail. Gives a somewhat hoarse “kik”, sometimes in rattled series. Drum is fast and fades towards the end. Found in mature undisturbed deciduous and mixed forest with lots of dead trees; sometimes near water, as well as in recently burned areas. Threatened by habitat loss in much of its range.

Hooded Tinamou
Nothocercus nigrocapillus
Fairly large, terrestrial bird of Andean cloud forest. It has a gray head, a white throat, white speckling on the wings, and faint barring on the belly. Similar to White-throated Tinamou, but Hooded has a grayer head, a less mottled neck, and a different voice, and is found at higher elevations. Very shy and solitary, heard far more often than seen; song is a nasal “ow” repeated every few seconds.

Seychelles Kestrel
Falco araeus
Unusually small kestrel with a gray head, a rufous back, unmarked buff underparts, a barred tail, and a dark “moustache” mark on the face. Found on several of the granitic Seychelles Islands. Originally found in areas of rainforest with cliffs and other rocky areas; now found in secondary scrub, cultivated areas, plantations, and towns, as well as in remnant natural habitat. Unlike other kestrels, does not hover. Call is a high, repeated “krii.” Shares general falcon shape with migrant and vagrant falcons, including Eleanora’s and Sooty Falcons, but smaller, with shorter, less pointed wings.
Start Your Bird Watching Journey
Identify a bird outdoors and keep the field guide close for your next observation.