The Tibetan Sandgrouse (Syrrhaptes tibetanus ) is a large bird in the sandgrouse family. This species breeds on the arid stony plateau in Tibet and neighbouring parts of central Asia. Its nest is a ground scrape into which three pale brown eggs with cryptic markings are laid.

Tibetan Sandgrouse is about 30-41cm long, with buff upperparts. It has an orange face, finely barred grey breast, white belly and black underwings. The latter two features are distinctions from the related Pallas's Sandgrouse, with which its range overlaps. Like that species, Tibetan Sandgrouse has feathered legs and toes.

The female has barred and duller upperparts than the male, and a shorter tail.

This gregarious sandgrouse has a small, pigeon-like head and neck, but sturdy compact body. It has long pointed wings and tail and a fast direct flight. Flocks fly to watering holes at dawn and dusk, usually the former.

Reference

• Pheasants, Partridges and Grouse by Madge and McGowan, ISBN 0-7136-3966-0