Upland Birds African Wingshooting

Spurfowl

Africa's tree-roosting francolins with dawn and dusk chorus

Spurfowl offer classic African upland bird hunting over well-trained English pointers. These larger francolins—distinguished by their tree-roosting habits and distinctive spurs—provide exciting walked-up shooting in the agricultural heartlands of southern Africa.

Primary Season

May - August

Recommended Gauge

12 or 20 Gauge

Typical Shot Size

#5 - #6

Prime Destination

South Africa

Key Species

• Swainson's Spurfowl (most abundant)
• Natal Spurfowl (faster, more compact)
• Red-billed Spurfowl (distinctive eyering)
• Cape Spurfowl (Western Cape endemic)
• Red-necked Spurfowl (red legs)

Prime Habitat

• Agricultural field margins
• Thorn scrub and savanna
• Harvested corn and soya fields
• Grasslands with tree cover
• River valleys and woodland edges

Behavior

• Live in coveys of 2-10 birds
• Roost in trees (unlike true francolins)
• Sit tight until nearly stepped on
• Explosive flush with noisy wingbeats
• Distinctive dawn and dusk calling

Did You Know?

Spurfowl are named for the sharp spurs on their legs—bony projections used for defense and territorial disputes. Unlike "true" francolins that roost on the ground, spurfowl are larger birds that roost in trees at night, making them taxonomically distinct. In Zimbabwe, Swainson's spurfowl is called "chikwari" in Shona and is considered a delicacy.

About Spurfowl Hunting

Spurfowl hunting represents the quintessential African upland experience—walking behind well-trained English pointers through the golden grasslands and agricultural margins of southern Africa. These birds, larger and more robust than their francolin cousins, have adapted remarkably well to agricultural landscapes, with populations of Swainson's spurfowl actually increasing throughout the 20th century as farming expanded.

Understanding the Species

Swainson's Spurfowl

The most abundant species for hunters. Brown overall with black streaking, distinctive red bare facial skin around eyes extending to throat, and black legs. Named after English ornithologist William Swainson. Thrives in agricultural areas and disturbed habitats. The upper bill is black and lower bill red.

Natal Spurfowl

Faster and more compact than Swainson's. Distinguished by bright orange-red bill and legs, yellow nostrils, and scaled (not barred) underparts. Found in KwaZulu-Natal and savanna regions with thick understory. Call is a loud raucous "kak-kreek."

Red-billed Spurfowl

Medium-sized with finely barred belly, head, and back. Diagnostic broad yellow eyering with reddish bill and feet. Endemic to parts of Namibia and Botswana. Call is a harsh, crowing "chak, chak, chak, CHAK, chakitty." Rarer than Swainson's in hunting areas.

Cape Spurfowl

Endemic to South Africa's Cape Province. Larger and darker than other species with distinctive white streaking on dark brown plumage. Found in fynbos and mountain regions. Often combined with greywing francolin hunting in the Western Cape.

The Hunting Experience

Spurfowl hunting is typically conducted as walked-up shooting over pointing dogs. Hunters follow well-trained English pointers or German shorthaired pointers as they quarter the field margins and grass cover surrounding agricultural lands. Spurfowl have increased dramatically in these areas because the habitat provides:

Adequate grass and thorn cover around cultivated fields for nesting and roosting
Adjacent harvested fields with endless food supply (corn, peanuts, soya)
Tree cover for their characteristic nighttime roosting
Perfect breeding conditions in the mixed agricultural-savanna interface

The birds typically sit very tight in concealed patches of thick grass, relying on their cryptic brown plumage for camouflage. Pointers use wind and scent to locate coveys, locking on solid points before the birds explode upward in a noisy flurry, providing exciting snap shooting opportunities.

Spurfowl vs. Francolins

Modern taxonomy separates these birds into distinct groups based on anatomy, behavior, and molecular biology:

Characteristic	Spurfowl	True Francolins
Size	Larger (400-800g)	Smaller (250-450g)
Roosting	Trees	Ground
Leg Spurs	Present	Absent or reduced
Leg Color	Orange, red, or black	Yellow
Genus	Pternistis	Francolinus, Scleroptila

Seasons & Prime Hunting Regions

Primary Season

May through August (South African winter/dry season). This coincides with post-harvest conditions when birds concentrate in agricultural areas and vegetation is shorter, making for better dog work and shooting conditions.

South Africa - Primary Destination

Free State Province

The agricultural heartland with excellent Swainson's spurfowl populations. Mixed crop farming (corn, wheat, sunflowers) creates ideal habitat. Often combined with guineafowl and dove shooting.

Season: May - August

KwaZulu-Natal (Dundee District)

Northern KZN offers the most varied bag in Africa. Home to both Swainson's and Natal spurfowl. The Dundee district's mixed crop farming is particularly productive. Action begins minutes from lodges.

Season: May - August

Limpopo Province

Bushveld savanna with strong Swainson's spurfowl populations. Often combined with driven guineafowl shoots. More traditional African bush setting compared to the agricultural Free State.

Season: May - August

Western Cape

Home to endemic Cape spurfowl. Often combined with greywing francolin hunting in mountain fynbos. Wine country setting with upscale accommodations. Different habitat and bird behavior from interior regions.

Season: April - August

Other African Destinations

Zimbabwe

Swainson's spurfowl (called "chikwari" locally) abundant in agricultural areas. Often available as add-on to plains game safaris. May-August season.

Namibia

Home to Red-billed and Hartlaub's spurfowl. Typically lower densities than South Africa but unique species. Combined with other namibian wingshooting.

Botswana

Red-billed spurfowl in appropriate habitat. Less developed wingshooting infrastructure than South Africa. Often incidental to other safari activities.

Mozambique

Various spurfowl species present. Emerging destination with developing wingshooting programs. Crested francolin and spurfowl available in appropriate areas.

Multi-Species Opportunities

Most African wingshooting safaris combine spurfowl with other species for a varied experience:

Typical Mixed Bag Safari

• Morning: Walked-up spurfowl and francolin over pointers
• Mid-morning: Driven guineafowl (1,000+ birds per drive possible)
• Afternoon: Flighted dove over corn fields
• Evening: Decoyed ducks and geese on farm dams
• Throughout: Rock pigeons, sandgrouse as encountered

Hunting Techniques

Walked-Up Over Pointers

The primary method for spurfowl hunting, this classic upland technique provides intimate engagement with well-trained pointing dogs and the African bush.

The Sequence

1. Quarter the cover: Two English pointers work the field margins, using wind to locate scent
2. Point established: Dog locks on solid point when birds are located
3. Approach: Hunters move forward carefully, guns at ready
4. Flush: Birds explode upward in noisy flurry when nearly stepped on
5. Shot: Snap shooting as birds scatter in multiple directions
6. Mark and retrieve: Mark fallen birds; dogs retrieve

Key Techniques

Reading the Dogs

Watch pointer body language. A solid point with tail high and body rigid indicates birds holding tight nearby. Softer points may indicate running birds or old scent. Follow the handler's direction.

Approach Speed

Approach pointed birds steadily but not too slowly. Spurfowl sit tight but may run if given too much time. Move with purpose while maintaining gun safety and ready position.

Shot Selection

Coveys of 2-10 birds will flush together. Pick a single bird and commit—don't "flock shoot." Rising birds present relatively straightforward shots before they level out and accelerate.

Cover Reading

Birds favor thick grass patches at field margins. Look for areas where grass cover meets harvested fields—this edge habitat concentrates birds feeding on waste grain.

Driven Spurfowl

While less common than driven guineafowl, spurfowl are sometimes included in driven shoots, particularly in bushveld areas where they're abundant.

Driven Shoot Format

Beaters flush spurfowl toward a line of guns at designated pegs. Birds present as incoming targets, often mixed with guineafowl. Faster-paced than walked-up hunting but less personal engagement with dogs. Spurfowl fly lower and faster than guineafowl once flushed.

Morning vs. Evening Hunts

Dawn Hunting (Preferred)

• Birds leaving tree roosts to feed
• Cooler temperatures for dogs and hunters
• Birds concentrated in feeding areas
• Best scenting conditions (morning dew)
• Dawn chorus helps locate coveys

Late Afternoon

• Birds feeding before roosting
• Temperatures cooling again
• Evening calling begins
• Often combined with dove flight shooting
• Limited shooting time before dark

Physical Demands

Walked-up spurfowl hunting requires moderate fitness:

Walking: 3-6 miles over varied terrain typical per morning session
Terrain: Mostly flat agricultural margins but with uneven ground, grass tussocks
Temperature: Winter months (May-August) are mild but mornings can be cold (40-50°F)
Pace: Moderate with frequent stops when dogs point
Duration: 2-3 hour morning sessions typical before heat builds

Recommended Equipment

Shotguns

The 12 gauge is most versatile for African conditions, handling everything from spurfowl to guineafowl to waterfowl. However, a 20 gauge is perfectly adequate for dedicated upland work.

Ideal Setup

• 12 or 20 gauge over/under or side-by-side
• 26" to 28" barrels
• Weight: 6.5-7.5 lbs for carrying comfort
• Reliable ejectors (high-volume possible)
• Interchangeable choke tubes

Semi-Automatic Option

• Popular for high-volume mixed bag days
• Reduced felt recoil for extended shooting
• Third shot useful on flushing coveys
• Beretta A400, Benelli SBE popular choices
• Ensure reliability in dusty conditions

Chokes

Situation	Recommended Choke	Notes
Walked-up over pointers	IC / Modified	Close rising shots 15-25 yards
Thick cover	Cylinder / Skeet	Very close flushes in dense grass
Open fields	Modified / IM	Longer shots on running flushes
Driven shoots	Modified / Full	Incoming birds at longer range

Ammunition

Recommended Loads

Shot Size: #5 or #6 lead (most common and effective)
Load: 1 oz to 1⅛ oz (28-32g)
Velocity: Standard field loads (1,200-1,300 fps)
Quantity: Bring 250-500 shells minimum per trip; high-volume days possible

Ammunition Notes

Most South African lodges can supply ammunition (typically Eley, Hull, or local brands), but selection may be limited. If bringing your own, check airline and customs regulations carefully. Lead shot is standard for upland hunting in South Africa—no non-toxic requirements except near wetlands.

Clothing & Gear

Essential Clothing

• Breathable upland pants (thorn-resistant)
• Lightweight long-sleeve shirts (sun protection)
• Layering system for cold mornings
• Wide-brimmed hat or cap
• Quality sunglasses (polarized)
• Light fleece or vest for dawn hunts

Footwear

• Comfortable hiking boots or upland boots
• Ankle support for uneven terrain
• Gaiters useful for thick grass
• Break in boots before trip
• Snake boots recommended in some areas

Accessories

• Shell pouch or upland vest
• Water bottle/hydration system
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
• Insect repellent
• Game bag or strap

Safety Equipment

• Shooting glasses (essential)
• Hearing protection
• Basic first aid kit
• Communication device
• Blaze orange if required/desired

Trip Preparation

Planning Your Safari

African wingshooting safaris require advance planning, typically 6-12 months ahead for prime season dates. Most operators offer package deals combining multiple bird species.

Typical Package Includes

• Lodge accommodation (often luxury standards)
• All meals and beverages (including alcohol)
• Professional guide and dog handlers
• Trained pointing dogs
• Ground transportation to hunting areas
• Bird cleaning and packaging
• Often: airport transfers from regional airports

Documentation Requirements

Entry Requirements

• Valid passport (6+ months validity)
• No visa required for US citizens (90 days)
• Yellow fever certificate if transiting endemic areas
• Travel insurance highly recommended

Firearm Import Permits

• Temporary firearm permit required (SAPS 520)
• Apply through outfitter or direct to police
• Max 4 firearms per permit
• 200 rounds per firearm allowed
• Allow 4-6 weeks for processing

Firearm Import Tips

Many experienced hunters opt to use lodge-provided shotguns to avoid the complexity of traveling with firearms internationally. Quality guns (Beretta, Browning) are typically available. If bringing your own, use a quality hard case and allow extra time at airports. Keep all documentation in carry-on luggage.

Physical Preparation

While not extremely demanding, spurfowl hunting requires reasonable fitness:

Cardiovascular: Walk 3-5 miles several times weekly before trip
Shooting practice: Clays sessions focusing on rising targets
Altitude: South African highveld is 4,000-6,000 feet; minor adjustment
Heat acclimatization: Not critical for winter hunting but stay hydrated

Health Considerations

Vaccinations

• Routine vaccinations current
• Hepatitis A and B recommended
• Typhoid if adventurous eating
• Yellow fever if transiting endemic areas
• Consult travel medicine specialist

Malaria

• Low/no risk in most wingshooting areas
• Free State, Western Cape: No risk
• KZN, Limpopo lowveld: Seasonal risk
• Prophylaxis if visiting risk areas
• Confirm with outfitter and doctor

Booking Checklist

6-12 Months Before

☐ Research and select outfitter
☐ Book dates (May-August fills quickly)
☐ Arrange travel insurance
☐ Check passport validity

2-3 Months Before

☐ Apply for firearm import permit (if bringing gun)
☐ Book international flights
☐ Arrange any additional domestic flights
☐ Schedule travel medicine appointment

1 Month Before

☐ Confirm all reservations
☐ Shooting practice sessions
☐ Break in boots if new
☐ Organize and pack gear
☐ Copy all documents (passport, permits)

Pro Tips for Success

Trust the Dogs

Safari dogs work these fields daily and know the birds. Honor their points completely—if the pointer says birds are there, they are. Resist the urge to question or rush the dog's work. Follow the handler's instructions.

Pick One Bird

When a covey flushes, discipline yourself to pick a single bird immediately and commit. Don't swing between birds or try to shoot into the flock. One bird, smooth mount, clean shot. Then look for a second bird if time allows.

Mount and Shoot

Spurfowl flush close and fast. Pre-mount your gun as you approach pointed birds. When birds flush, complete the mount smoothly and pull the trigger as your cheek touches the stock. Hesitation means missed birds.

Species Identification

Learn to distinguish species by leg color, facial features, and calls. Swainson's (red face, black legs) are most common. Natal (orange legs, scaled breast) fly faster. Red-billed (yellow eyering) are bonus birds in appropriate areas.

Pace Yourself

African wingshooting days can be long with multiple species. Don't exhaust yourself on morning spurfowl walks—save energy for afternoon doves or driven guineafowl. Hydrate constantly and take offered breaks.

Dawn Chorus Location

Spurfowl call distinctively at dawn and dusk from their tree roosts. Use the morning chorus to locate covey concentrations before the hunt begins. Guide handlers know these patterns but it helps to understand what you're hearing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

× Over-choked gun: Spurfowl flush close; use IC/Mod, not Full
× Swinging on covey: Pick one bird before mounting
× Ignoring points: Trust the dog even if you don't see birds
× Poor footwear: Blisters ruin hunts; break in boots beforehand
× Dehydration: Highveld sun and dry air are deceiving; drink constantly
× Shooting too quick: Let birds get out to 15-20 yards for better pattern spread
× Forgetting sunscreen: Southern hemisphere sun is intense even in winter

Safari Etiquette

Cultural Considerations

• Tipping is expected: Budget $20-50/day for trackers, dog handlers, lodge staff
• Respect the staff: Your guides and handlers are skilled professionals
• Safe gun handling: African lodges take safety very seriously
• Don't compare: Every day and lodge is different; enjoy the experience
• Photography: Ask before photographing staff or local people

Maximizing Your Experience

Combine Species

Book packages that include guineafowl, francolin, doves, and waterfowl. Spurfowl hunting is typically a morning activity; afternoons offer different opportunities. Variety keeps the experience fresh.

Add Game Viewing

Many wingshooting lodges can arrange game viewing or photographic safaris on rest days. KZN and Limpopo especially offer wildlife experiences to complement your hunting safari.

Document Your Trip

African wingshooting is photogenic—pointing dogs in golden grass, sunrise over the bushveld. Bring a quality camera and capture the experience beyond just grip-and-grin bird photos.

Extend Your Stay

The long flights to Africa justify extending your trip. Add Cape Town wine country, Kruger safari, or Victoria Falls to make the most of your journey. Many operators can arrange extensions.

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