Iranian Ground-Jay

Podoces pleskei

Strange brownish corvid restricted to eastern Iran. Pinkish-buff overall, with a slightly decurved bill and black-and-white wing coverts. Also note black tail and black “badge” on chest. Inhabits flat sandy deserts with interspersed vegetation, where it forages on the ground in pairs or small flocks. Gives a series of high squeaky notes comparable to the sound of fingernails on a blackboard, typically in the early morning.

Identification

The Iranian ground jay (Podoces pleskei) or Pleske's ground jay, is a species of bird in the family Corvidae. It is endemic to Iran where it is known as zaghbur in Persian. The species is named after Russian zoologist Theodor Pleske.

Taxonomy

Genus: Podoces; Family: Corvidae; Order: Passeriformes.

Scientific name
Podoces pleskei
Authority
Zarudny, 1896
Order
Passeriformes
Family
Corvidae
Genus
Podoces

Range and habitat

Migration
Resident species

Behavior

Migration pattern: Resident species.

Conservation

Population trend: stable.

Population trend
stable

Photos

Distribution

Bird Calls

Start Your Bird Watching Journey

Identify a bird outdoors and keep the field guide close for your next observation.