
There are three kinds of francolin in Hawaii, the grey francolin, black francolin, and Erckel’s francolin. All are introduced game birds. Of the three, the Erckel’s francolin is the largest. It’s native to North Africa and was brought to Hawaii in 1957. It’s distinguished, not just by its size, but by its bold markings and chestnut crown.
This one was at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. For more information about Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, go to nps.gov/havo/.

Fabulous plumage – a very handsome bird. Are they still hunted for “sport”?
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I don’t think they’re hunted much anymore, though I suppose a few must get taken here and there. I don’t really have a problem when people hunt for food – done responsibly of course. People hunting for trophies or just, well, whatever, that I don’t really understand.
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