Harwood’s francolin  (Francolinus harwoodi)

The greatest threat facing Harwood’s francolin is habitat destruction. In central Ethiopia, expanding human populations are increasing the pressure on natural habitat, resulting in trees and bushes being cleared for agriculture, and to provide wood for fuel and construction (2) (5). Beds of bullrushes are annually burned so that farmers can plant cotton in the moist soil, and bullrushes are also cut to provide material for thatching, mats and fencing (5). Whilst bullrush beds are apparently adept at regenerating, this level of disturbance is slowly reducing the area of critical bullrush habitat available for Harwood’s francolins (5). Hunting of the Harwood’s francolin compounds the threat of habitat loss. This bird is heavily hunted for its flesh, which is prized for its flavour and for the medicinal value it is believed to possess (5), and its eggs are also taken for food (4).

At present, Harwood’s francolin is not known to be receiving any specific conservation action. An Action Plan for the conservation of partridges, quails, francolins, snowcocks, and guineafowl was published in 1995, and then updated in 2000 (4). This document highlights conservation actions required for the species in this group, including Harwood’s francolin. Recommended actions were to carry out population surveys, ascertain its habitat requirements and the importance of different threats, develop a community-orientated action plan, and protect key areas (4). Hopefully such measures will soon be implemented, to ensure the survival of this vulnerable bird.