Life span -~- No information available for wild birds. Wild-trapped 
adult birds have survived for 3 years in captivity in Nevada. 
Sex ratio -- Appears to be equal. 
Renesting -- It is indicated that they will renest if the first nest 
is destroyed. 
Second broods -- It is strongly indicated that there are two major 
nesting periods during the year and that second broods are produced. 
Diseases and Parasites 
Limited experience with diseases and parasites was gained during the 
trapping and holding operations in India, quarantine in the United States, 
and the brief holding period in Nevada before field release. The sand- 
grouse appeared to be considerably less disease prone than any of the 
gallinaceous game birds which were held under similar circumstances. During 
the holding period in Jodhpur these birds were on occasions exposed to 
Newcastle disease and fowl pox and did not appear to be susceptible to 
either. They seem to be relatively resistant to the more common communi- 
cable diseases characteristic of poultry. 
Only one reference to parasites of Pterocles exustus was located. 
Singh (36) indicates that Maplestone found pin worms (Syphaciella indica) 
in these sandgrouse, collected in India. 
Analysis of Competing Interests 
Relation to Agriculture 
Some sandgrouse such as the pin-tailed have been observed by Bump 
(page 47) to descend upon cultivated fields in flocks containing thou- 
sands of birds, The exact extent of crop damage, if any, during these 
occasions is a subject of speculation. Nevertheless, crop damage or 
flocking in cultivated fields is a matter of concern, especially with 
regard to introducing a species where agricultural crops are common. To 
all appearances the common sandgrouse, though it does frequent areas of 
agriculture, is not injurious to crops. This species does not inhabit 
croplands when crops are growing or before the harvest since it does not 
like dense cover. It is seen on fields which have been cleared of the 
harvest or on fallow fields. Studies show that only a very low incidence 
of agricultural grains are utilized for food. 
Usefulness 
As a source of food -- The flesh of the sandgrouse is all dark meat. 
Although the common sandgrouse is a relatively small bird, the well 
developed breast muscles provide more meat than would be expected. Sand- 
grouse meat has a tendency to be dry, but when properly prepared it can 
be turned into a tasty meal. 
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