Habitat:
Deserts, steppes, semi-deserts

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Houbara bustard, Chlamydotis undulata, is a medium-sized bird known for its sandy-brown plumage, which provides excellent camouflage in desert landscapes. It features a distinctive crest of black and white feathers on its head and neck. This primarily terrestrial bird prefers running to flying when escaping predators. Its diet consists mainly of plants, insects, and small reptiles. The Houbara bustard is famous for its spectacular courtship displays, where the male fans out his feathers to attract a mate. It inhabits the arid and semi-arid regions of North Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia. Unfortunately, this species is threatened by excessive hunting and habitat loss.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Houbara bustard, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400 mm to capture detailed images without disturbing the bird. Since this bird is shy and prefers open habitats, it's crucial to maintain a safe distance of about 50 m. The best times to observe and photograph the Houbara bustard are early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the light is soft and the bird is more active. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera and be patient to get quality shots.