Leipoa – Malleefowl

One of the three mound-building birds in Australia and the only one living in arid areas

Australian bird resembling domestic chicken is shy and flies only to escape while knowing several other tactics to hide from the enemy. They are omnivorous and prefer an area with less vegetation. Male are monogamous and makes mound on sandy grounds where the female lays eggs. The Male keeps the temperature of the mound at about 33°C (91°F) and tests it by sticking its beak into the mound.

The species is evaluated as threatened mainly due to fragmentation and loss of habitat. The recurrence and severity of droughts in the area of habituation and fires are rendering it vulnerable. The Yongergnow Australian Malleefowl Centre has been working in Australia since 2007 to conserve Malleefowl.