Partridges

Partridges are small to medium ground-dwelling birds in the pheasant family Phasianidae. They inhabit Europe, Asia, and North Africa; the term covers several species in genera Perdix and Alectoris, among others. The grey partridge (Perdix perdix) and the red-legged partridge (Alectoris rufa) are among the best known; the chukar partridge (Alectoris chukar) is widely distributed in Asia and introduced elsewhere.

They are stocky birds with short necks, short wings, and strong legs. Plumage is cryptic brown and grey with barring; males and females similar though males may be slightly larger. They are primarily terrestrial and spend much of the day foraging on open ground; roost in hedges or grass at dusk.

Diet consists of seeds, shoots, leaves, buds, and invertebrates, especially during chick rearing. They are generally ground feeders, taking advantage of field margins and grain crops.

Nests are ground scrapes hidden in vegetation. Clutch size usually 6-15 eggs; both sexes may have roles in defense; incubation by the female lasts about 18-23 days; chicks are precocial and leave the nest soon after hatching.

Many partridge species have declined due to habitat loss, intensification of agriculture, and predation, though some remain widespread. The red-legged partridge has been introduced in various regions for game hunting and can form feral populations; in some areas, management programs promote habitat restoration.