PEOPLE living in the Highway area are almost certain to have heard the Buff-spotted Flufftail, but few will have ever seen one. It is arguably the most elusive bird species in the area, despite the fact that it is often present in many local gardens.
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Description
This is a relatively small bird, smaller than a dove and, although it does not live in water, it has a typical shape of a small water bird, such as a Coot. It is approximately 16cm in length, with an average weight of 45g. Males and females are quite different in appearance. The male has a distinctive rufous/orange coloured head, shoulders and chest with a black back, which is covered in buff spots. The female is mainly brownish all over with some buff spots on the back and barring on the chest.
Distribution
The Buff-spotted Flufftail is found across many parts of Africa but, in South Africa, it is generally restricted to a narrow eastern band from the Western Cape to Swaziland, with a presence in the mountainous parts of Mpumalanga. In KwaZulu-Natal it is widespread, from the coast to the Drakensberg.
Local information
As already mentioned, Highway residents will, in all likelihood, have heard this bird, but spotting it is a challenge. It is present throughout the Highway area and frequents most well-shrubbed gardens, so the best place to look for it is in your backyard. They are extremely shy birds, so will go quiet if you approach them, but they will hold their position for some time as you approach. They usually perch about 1m above the ground when calling.
Interesting facts
The Buff-spotted Flufftail has a range of calls, but the mating call of the male is quite unique and can be described as a low-pitched, hollow sounding and monotonous hooting ‘oooooooooo’. Each individual hoot can last between three and four seconds, which is repeated five to eight times per minute for hours on end. It has been known to call for up to 12 hours, non-stop. The call is usually made at night or early morning, and also during rainy weather and can be heard from a distance of 1km in forested areas and up to 2.8km in more open environments.
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