Abstract

The breeding ecology of the Kori Bustard Ardeotis kori strunthiunculus was studied in the plains of the Serengeti
National Park, Tanzania in 2014 and 2015. Random transects were used to search for male courtship displays, nests,
chicks and subadults. GPS satellite collars were used to locate nesting females. Linear regression analyses and post
hoc tests were used to determine the predictors that contributed most to the variation of the dependent variables
(courtship display, nest, chicks and subadults). The results indicate that courtship behaviour peaks during the short
dry and short rainy season before the peaks in nests and chicks. The highest nest frequency was found in short
grass habitats. Female Kori Bustard may undergo repeated nestings within a single breeding season. The adult sex
ratio was female skewed during the breeding season. The Kori Bustard breeding season in the Serengeti plains is
relatively long, lasting for almost nine months, and taking place during all seasons except for the long dry season.
We recommend that management authorities conduct assessments of Kori Bustard recruitment as well as habitat
suitability in the Serengeti ecosystem to develop future conservation strategies.