The Little Bustard, a marvel of the Eurasian steppes
The Little Bustard (Tetrax tetrax) belongs to the family Otididae, representing the only member of the genus Tetrax. Its range extends from the grasslands of Western and Southern Europe to parts of Asia, covering territories from the Iberian Peninsula to southern Russia. Unfortunately, this species, although once widespread, now faces increasing threats and is classified as near-threatened on the IUCN Red List.
Resembling its cousin the Great Bustard, the Little Bustard is distinguished by its brown-beige plumage, with finer and more delicate patterns. Its powerful legs are also a distinctive feature, which highlight its adaptation to its environment.
In males, sexual dimorphism is observable in terms of size, although less marked than in the Great Bustard. The difference in plumage is a much more obvious indicator. Males have black and white feathers on the neck, which form a V-shaped pattern, but also on the wings when they are spread, giving it an elegant and distinctive appearance.
Photo Jonathan Guillot
Although much more modest in size than the Great Bustard, the Little Bustard remains an imposing bird. Males reach an average weight of 1 kg, with a height of 45 to 55 cm and a wingspan of 110 to 115 cm. So even if it is far from rivaling the size of the Great Bustard, it remains an emblematic figure of the vast expanses of steppes and meadows of Europe.
Where to see the Little Bustard?
Native to the Eurasian steppes, the Little Bustard demonstrates remarkable adaptability to diverse open habitats, from grasslands to cultivated fields. However, it faces similar challenges to the Great Bustard due to habitat loss caused by intensive agriculture and rampant urbanization.
In Europe, it persists around the Mediterranean and in arid agricultural areas, particularly in Spain and Portugal. In fact, the Iberian Peninsula concentrates more than 80% of the total population. It is also found in France, Italy and Hungary. Populations are mostly fragile, requiring conservation efforts to ensure their survival.
The habitat of the Little Bustard include open expanses characteristic of the steppes, such as the Crau plain in France, as well as cultivated or grazed meadows, young wastelands and fallows. Open agricultural spaces dedicated to extensive mixed farming-livestock farming constitute a very important part of its habitat. The fragility of these populations requires sustained conservation efforts to guarantee their survival.
Threats
Listed as a near-threatened species, the Little Bustard faces various threats, including:
irrigation of arable land (modification of the ecosystem)
conversion of perennial crops (habitat loss)
reduction of cultural mosaics (habitat loss)
use of pesticides and afforestation (decrease in food resources and poisoning)
Although the main threat to the species is the disappearance of its habitat, other direct impacts on individuals can be identified depending on the environment or location. The mechanization of agriculture, for example, regularly causes the death of incubating females and broods. Power lines, the presence of airports or aerodromes, but also predation by pets (especially dogs), constitute additional pressures.
Behavior
The Little Bustard is mainly observed on the ground, moving nimbly in search of food. Its diverse diet includes grasses, seeds and invertebrates and is highly variable depending on location.
Little Bustard and Great Bustard - Photo Jonathan Guillot
The breeding period is based on the concept of the "lek". The most remarkable aspect of this process is the courtship display of the male, which vigorously engages in defending a territory. This can take three distinct forms:
first of all, the isolated song;
then the “beating of wings” which combines stamping, whistling of the wings and singing;
finally the "jumping" display which, although very rapid, seems to include several signals, particularly with the aim of attracting the attention of females.
The Little Bustard's nest is extremely basic: a few grasses are simply placed in a hollow on the ground. The female lays between 2 and 5 eggs in the spring.
After the breeding period, individuals group together to form gatherings which, in general, will only disperse during the following spring. The species is generally discreet and very shy in contact with humans. Conservation efforts aim to minimize disturbance, protect its habitat, and raise public awareness of the importance of preserving this unique species.
Photographing the Little Bustard
The presence of a large population of Little Bustards in Spain and Portugal offers an exceptional opportunity for birders and wildlife photography enthusiasts. However, it is important to know that the distance is often significant. In fact, except when using a hide, it is very rare to photograph a Little Bustard in full frame.
We invite you to try to observe this magnificent bird while limiting disturbances during our birding day trips and tours in Alentejo. Accompanied by an experienced local guide, discover the beauty of the Little Bustard in its natural habitat, learning about its behavior, biology and the conservation challenges it faces.
