The Sharpe’s Longclaw, Macronyx sharpei, are endemic to the African country of Kenya.
Description
They average 16 – 17 cm (~6 inches) in length (including tail).
The upperparts are heavily marked with buff and rufous streaks. They have yellow underparts. In flight, the white outertail feathers can be seen.
They are named for their unusually long hind claws, which are thought to help in walking on grass.
Diet / Feeding
They are ground-feeding insectivores.
Nesting / Breeding
They are ground nesters, laying up to four speckled eggs.
Status
With an estimated population of less than 20,000, these birds are endangered as their grassland habitat is being replaced by cultivation and woodlots.
