Sighting of Black-bellied Bustard

 

 

 

On 14 October we came across a Black-bellied Bustard on the 4x4 trail. We were watching the giraffes when this bird moved close to the car and began its unusual call. it is a loud "cluck" followed by an "extended rasping burp"! It seemed to be a territorial issue and he was not too concerned about our presence. I called this bird up on my Sasol Bird program which I have loaded on my cell phone, and began playing his call - he responed immediately! The bird spent some time looking for another of its kind in or around my vehicle. We never persisted as the bird was becoming agitated, but it confirmed to me what an excellent confirmation the recorded sounds of a bird can be if you are not already 100% certain of your ID!