Pteroclidiformes

Pteroclidiformes is an order of birds that contains a single family, Pteroclidae, commonly known as sandgrouse. These birds are found in arid and semi-arid regions of Africa, Eurasia, and the Middle East. They are characterized by their plump bodies, small heads, and long, pointed wings, which allow for swift and direct flight. Sandgrouse are primarily seed-eaters, foraging on the ground for grains and other plant matter.

A distinctive feature of sandgrouse is their remarkable ability to carry water to their young. Male sandgrouse have specialized abdominal feathers that can absorb and retain large quantities of water from distant sources. They then fly back to their nests, often covering considerable distances, and allow their chicks to drink by pressing these water-laden feathers against their bodies. This adaptation is crucial for survival in the harsh desert environments where they live.

Sandgrouse are typically monogamous and form pairs for breeding. They nest on the ground, often in shallow scrapes. Both parents participate in incubation and chick-rearing. Their cryptic plumage provides excellent camouflage against the sandy and rocky backgrounds of their habitats, making them difficult to spot. Despite their adaptations to arid environments, some species can be found in areas with more vegetation, though they generally prefer open country. The order Pteroclidiformes represents a unique evolutionary lineage adapted to survival in some of the world's driest climates.