About Pterocles quadricinctus Temminck, 1815
The four-banded sandgrouse (Pterocles quadricinctus Temminck, 1815) is 25–28 cm (9.8–11 inches) in length. This species has a small, pigeon-like head and neck, paired with a sturdy, compact body. It has long pointed wings that are grey on the underside, a short tail, and a fast direct flight. For plumage, the head, neck, and upperparts are yellowish-green, while the back is heavily marked with brown. Males have black and white bands on the forehead, and additional black and white bands that separate the breast from the heavily barred belly. Females do not have the head and breast bands that males have, and are heavily barred on the back and flanks. This gregarious species can be found in a belt across Africa that stretches from Mauritania and Cameroon eastward to Sudan and Uganda. It is much more common in the western part of its range. It is a partial seasonal migrant, with some individuals moving further north during the rainy season. It breeds in open areas that have some trees, including savanna, scrubland, and similar habitats.
