Syrrhaptes

Syrrhaptes is a genus of birds in the sandgrouse family. It comprises two central Asian species.


 * Tibetan Sandgrouse, Syrrhaptes tibetanus
 * Pallas's Sandgrouse, Syrrhaptes paradoxus

These are large birds breeding in open steppes or plateau. They nest in a ground scrape into which three eggs are laid.

Both species have mainly buff upperparts, an orange face and feathered legs and toes. They are smaller-headed than other sandgrouse, but have sturdy compact bodies.

Although there is range overlap, they are easily distinguished. Tibetan Sandgrouse has a white belly and black underwings, whereas Pallas's has a black belly and white underwings.

These birds are gregarious like other sandgrouse. Flocks fly to watering holes at dawn and dusk, on long pointed wings.