| Range: |
Central northern Africa, southern Asia |
| Habitat: |
Sparse, bushy, arid land |
| Conservation Status: |
Common |
| Scientific Name: |
Pterocles exustus |
These small members of the pigeon family live in hot, arid climates where they prefer rocky places or open landscapes with loose silty or dusty soil. They are dependent on water, so their small flocks may fly up to 50 miles a day to reach a watering hole. In fact, water is so precious to these birds that adults carry drops to their young in their breast feathers. Sandgrouse are usually on the alert for danger. When they are startled, they often fly almost straight up into the air. They feed primarly on seeds, as well as grasses, herbs, and mustard leaves.
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