LOPHOTIS GINDIANA
Buff-crested bustards are native to eastern Africa in countries such as Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. They can be found living in rocky deserts, savannahs and woodlands.
This small species of bird are considered opportunistic hunters that feed on plants, insects, and small rodents in the wild.
Buff-crested bustards are considered somewhat solitary. They can often be found in pairs or family groups, but do not typically live and travel in large flocks.
Although they are not frequent flyers, male buff crested bustards will put on elaborate aerial displays, sometimes up to 100 feet in the air, to impress females for mating.
The buff crested bustard at the Zoo is enrolled in the Species Survival Plan (SSP). SSP is a program implemented by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) to help ensure a genetically viable population exists.
