Red-legged partridge

Red-legged partridge(Alectoris rufa)

Phylum —chordata
Class — aves
Order — galliformes
Family —phasianidae

Genus – alectoris

Appearance

Length – 32-34 cm, wingspan – 47-50 cm, weight – 400-550 g.

Adult red-legged partridges are sandy-brown above, pinkish-buff on the belly, and pale grey on the breast, with a prominent gorget of black streaking, bold rufous and black flank-bars, a cream throat, pink legs, and a red bill and eye ring.

Habitat

Red-legged partridge is found in Western Europe, in France and Spain, and has been introduced in Great Britain 200 years ago, and also in Atlantic Islands.  

Behavior

This species is mostly sedentary, but some birds may perform altitudinal movements in winter, reaching lower grounds. 

Red-legged partridges are often seen in flock of up to 20 birds, wandering over fields and pastures. The dull colors of the upperparts make this bird almost invisible among the low vegetation.

This bird often perches on high structures, walls or old farm buildings.

Diet

This is a seed-eating species, but the young in particular take insects as an essential protein supply.

Reproduction

Red-legged partridge have a long breeding season, beginning in late April and extending into June. Males can be aggressive during breeding season. Eggs are laid in the first year, and clutch size is usually 10-12 eggs. Eggs are olive-tan in color and speckled in light brown. Incubation takes 23 days.

In captivity

Lifespan is about 8-12 years.

Like most partridge, red-legged partridge are straightforward and easy to care for. They do well in aviaries and enclosures, but be watchful for aggressive behavior when housing a lot of them. Be sure that the floor of the enclosure can be kept dry and well drained, as these birds do not do well in wet conditions. Red-legged partridge are winter hardy. It would be a good practice to keep them in flocks during the winter as the birds do huddle together on cold nights for warmth.

Red-legged partridge eat seeds in the wild, with young birds seeking out extra protein in the form of insects. A high-quality commercial game bird feed would be appropriate.

Males can be aggressive during breeding season, and pairs may need to be separated. Providing space and hiding places and secluded areas for nesting also helps with stress reduction during breeding season.

These partridge can hybridize or cross with other similar species so avoid housing similar birds in the same enclosure.