Kori Bustard Skull BC-221
$160.00

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Kori Bustards are colored a somber gray, with a black head crest, and yellow legs. Males stand 30-36 inches tall and weigh up to 35 pounds. This is the upper weight limit for flight in birds. Koris avoid flying, however, even preferring to run away when escaping from danger. Their days are spent deliberately foraging for insects, lizards, seeds, and small mammals on the arid African savannahs and grasslands.

Unlike most other species of bird, bustards suck water into their throats rather than dip for it. Breeding males gather in small groups called "leks" and compete in ritualized courtship displays. Winners breed with several females but abandon them shortly afterwards

Kori Bustards are also notable for their unusual commensal association with the Carmine Bee-eater. The colorful smaller bird rides on the bustard's back as it strides through the grasslands, making the most of its tall mobile perch by hunting insects disturbed by the larger bird's wanderings. In turn, the active bee-eater provides the bustard with an additional set of eyes.