AVITOPIA - Rockjumpers

The only two species of the family of Rockjumpers are found in southern Africa, i.e. in South Africa and Lesotho, as endemic resident birds. New DNA studies have shown that, unlike in the past, they must now be viewed as a separate family. Their body length is between 21 cm and 25 cm. The legs are black, the iris is bright red. The wings are small; Rockjumpers live on the ground and do not fly often. There they look for insects and other invertebrates in family groups. They are monogamous and defend their territory all year round. The nests are made of grass on the ground. The eggs are incubated by both parents. The young are fed for several weeks by parents and helpers from the previous generation.