Living in some of the world’s most inhospitable deserts, Sandgrouse happen to be very hardy birds. Forming large flicks, They slowly move across the desert eating thousands of seeds. In their search for food, Sandgrouse roost wherever They happen to be.
Although They are found in Africa and Eurasia, Sandgrouse have no close relations. Because of their colouring, They were often mistaken for Grouse. However after much debate, scientists believe that perhaps the closet relatives of Sandgrouse are the Wading Birds.
When Sandgrouse want to lay their eggs, They make a shallow depression in the ground. Nesting out in the open, Sandgrouse effectively prevent predators from eating their Eggs. The Parents take turns incubating and protecting their Chicks from the hot sun. After Mother’s shift in the daytime, Father takes over for the night.
Father Sandgrouse provides water for his Chicks in an extraordinary manner. During the day, He flies to a water hole and fills his crop. His breast and undersides contains a net of fine filaments. After dusting Himself off, Father Sandgrouse soaks in the water. His net becomes a sponge to soak up the water. After He flies home and lands, Father Sandgrouse lifts his body up. Racing to Him, his Chicks drink the water from the filaments. He provides water for two months until his Chicks moult.
Sandgrouse aptly demonstrates a father’s love for his children. Performing what could be referred to as “the stuff of legends”, He brings his children water from far distances. A father’s love is what Sandgrouse offers to us. Let us bask in that love.
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Science Notes:
1. Sandgrouse are Pterodidae while true Grouse are Galliforms.
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