Orange-throated Longclaw (Macronyx capensis capensis)

The name "Longclaw" comes from the long claw on the rear toe characteristic of the pipit family (Motacillidae). This toe provides balance when walking on the ground. There are eight species of Longclaws, all confined to Africa and all but one in the genus Macronyx. Longclaws are rather sturdy, upright, terrestrial birds that may remind Americans of the unrelated meadowlarks (Sturnella sp.) in the family Icteridae. In fact, their similarity is often used as a classic example of evolutionary convergence. This species is often called the Cape Longclaw. It is endemic to Southern Africa. Three subspecies recognized. This is the nominate race restricted to the Western Cape region. Other races lack the gray wash on the breast and are darker on the back