Puneet Varma (Editor)

Syrrhaptes

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Kingdom
  
Order
  
Pteroclidiformes

Scientific name
  
Syrrhaptes

Rank
  
Genus

Phylum
  
Chordata

Family
  
Pteroclididae

Higher classification
  
Sandgrouse

Syrrhaptes httpsuploadwikimediaorgwikipediacommons66

Lower classifications
  

Syrrhaptes is a genus of birds in the sandgrouse family. The genus name is from Ancient Greek surrhaptos, "sewn together"; the feathered toes of birds in this genus are fused together.

There are two central Asian species.

  • Tibetan sandgrouse, Syrrhaptes tibetanus
  • Pallas's sandgrouse, Syrrhaptes paradoxus
  • These are large birds breeding in open steppes or plateau. They nest in a ground scrape into which three eggs are laid.

    Both species have mainly buff upperparts, an orange face and feathered legs and toes. They are smaller-headed than other sandgrouse, but have sturdy compact bodies.

    The small feet lack a hind toe, and the three front toes are fused together. The upper surface is feathered, and the underneath has a fleshy pad. The appearance of the foot is more like a paw than an avian foot.

    Although there is range overlap, they are easily distinguished. Tibetan sandgrouse has a white belly and black underwings, whereas Pallas's has a black belly and white underwings.

    These birds are gregarious like other sandgrouse. Flocks fly to watering holes at dawn and dusk, on long pointed wings.

    References

    Syrrhaptes Wikipedia