Definition & Meaning of "bustard"

What is a "bustard"?

A bustard is a large bird species found in various regions around the world, including Africa, Europe, and Asia. Known for its impressive size and distinctive appearance, the bustard is characterized by a robust body, long legs, and a long neck. It has a broad wingspan, which enables it to take flight and soar gracefully across open landscapes. Bustards are primarily ground-dwelling birds, inhabiting grasslands, steppes, and savannahs. They are known for their remarkable courtship displays, during which males puff up their feathers, fan out their tails, and make booming calls to attract females. Bustards are omnivorous, feeding on a varied diet that includes insects, small mammals, reptiles, seeds, and plant matter. Due to habitat loss and hunting pressures, some bustard species are considered threatened or endangered.