Lophotis ruficrista (near-endemic)

Growing up I only knew of this korhaan as the “parachute bird”, given its awesome, aerial mating display. The male bird (who also boasts a bushy red crest in display) flies straight up, and then tumbles down dramatically before gliding to land. These small, near-endemics can be seen displaying in traditional areas within their semi-desert grassland and dry woodland habitats.

Our best encounter with this species was in June 2012 while visiting Mokaikai in the Waterberg with John and Jen Whittall.