(Ardeotis kori)

IUCN status : Near Threatened

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Kori Bustard is the heaviest flying bird of the planet. They can reach 3 feet in height and 4 feet in length. Males can weigh up to 20 Kg. Their large wing span of 2.75 m (9 ft) probably helps them to take off. Kori Bustards are diurnal and omnivores (they eat both plants and animals). Their diet is mostly based on insects, snakes, lizards and small mammals. They occasionally consume berries and seeds. They are particularly fond of acacia gum. This gives them their Africans name of “Gompou”, translated as “gum-bustard”.