The Sypheotides indicus (scientific name) or lesser florican is typically found in tall grasslands in the Indian sub-continent. Smaller in height than its counterpart, the Bengal Florican, this bird is 25 inches in height. While both birds are nearly similar in appearance, the lesser florican has three ribbon-like feathers that are four inches long and extend from the under-ear coverts curving backwards. The back is spotted in a ‘V-shape’, and wing coverts are white. Its back is barred or mottled in black and underparts are buff and streaked. They have long pale-yellow legs. While they mostly eat insects and invertebrates, they are also known to eat seeds and herbs at times. The average clutch has 3-4 eggs, incubated for 21 days. Its IUCN listing is ENDANGERED.
Lesser Florican
