paauw

The term "paauw" refers to bustards found in South Africa. Bustards are medium-to-large game birds belonging to the family Otididae, which are related to cranes and rails. There are approximately 23 species of bustards, primarily found in Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, and parts of New Guinea.1

These birds are characterized by their relatively long legs, adapted for running, and they possess only three toes, lacking a hind toe. Their bodies are compact and carried horizontally, with an erect neck positioned forward of the legs. The great bustard (Otis tarda) is the largest European land bird, with males weighing up to 14 kg (31 pounds). The largest bustard in South Africa is the great paauw, also known as the kori bustard (Ardeotis kori).1