Red-legged Partridge
Near ThreatenedAlectoris rufa
Visual Identification
Red-legged Partridge
Appearance
The Red-legged Partridge is a plump, round-bodied game bird with distinctive markings. Its upperparts are predominantly greyish-brown, contrasting with a grey breast and buff belly. The face and throat are white, bordered by a black necklace that splits into multiple bars on the flanks.
Both sexes look similar, with bright red legs and bills, although females lack the leg spurs and tend to be slightly larger. Juveniles resemble adults but have duller plumage and lack the defined black necklace. The bird's appearance remains consistent throughout the year, with no seasonal variations.
Size
Length
32cm to 34cm
Wingspan
47cm to 50cm
Weight
400g to 550g
Colours
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Brown Grey
Secondary Colour
Red Black White
Beak Colour
Red
Leg Colour
Red
Habitat and Distribution
Habitats
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Distribution
Red-legged Partridges are native to southwestern Europe, including Spain, Portugal, and parts of France and Italy. They prefer open, dry habitats such as farmland, grasslands, and scrubby areas with some cover for nesting and shelter.
In the UK, where they were introduced in the 18th century, they are now well-established, particularly in eastern and southern England. They are non-migratory, maintaining their territories year-round in suitable habitats.
Elevation Range
Up to 2,000 meters
Climate zones
Temperate, Mediterranean
Distribution Map
Distribution by Region
Behaviour and Ecology
Bird Attributes
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Diet
Red-legged Partridges are omnivorous, and their diet varies seasonally. They primarily feed on seeds, grains, and leaves, supplementing this with insects and small invertebrates, especially during the breeding season.
These birds often forage in open fields, scratching the ground to uncover food.
Behaviour
Red-legged Partridges are ground-dwelling birds, preferring to run rather than fly when disturbed. They are often seen in small groups called coveys, especially outside the breeding season.
These birds are known for their habit of 'exploding' into flight when startled, a sudden and noisy takeoff that can surprise predators and birdwatchers alike.
Vocalisation
The Red-legged Partridge has a distinctive call, often described as a sharp, metallic 'chuck-chuck' or 'chuk-chuk-chukar'. This call is frequently heard during the breeding season, especially at dawn and dusk. When alarmed, they may emit a harsh, grating 'krak-krak' sound as they take flight.
Nesting & Breeding
Red-legged Partridges form monogamous pairs during the breeding season, which typically begins in April. Males perform courtship displays, including head-bobbing and circling potential mates.
Nests are simple scrapes on the ground, often hidden in tall grass or under hedgerows. Females lay 10-16 cream-coloured eggs with brown speckles. The nest is usually well-concealed to protect it from predators.
Incubation lasts about 23-24 days, primarily by the female. Chicks are precocial, leaving the nest shortly after hatching. Both parents care for the young, which can fly at about two weeks old and become independent at around two months.
Lifespan
The Red-legged Partridge typically lives for 3 to 5 years, with a maximum recorded lifespan of 6.2 years.
Like all birds, lifespan can be affected by factors including predation, habitat quality, disease, and access to food sources.
Conservation and Status
Global Conservation Status
Listed as Near Threatened globally, Red-legged Partridges face localised pressures from habitat loss, intensive farming practices and overhunting.
In the UK, where they were introduced, conservation efforts focus on maintaining suitable habitats through wildlife-friendly farming methods and managing populations for sustainable game shooting.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for Red-legged Partridges in open farmland, especially near field edges or hedgerows.
- Listen for their distinctive 'chuck-chuck' call, especially early morning or evening.
- Scan the ground carefully, as these birds blend well with their surroundings.
- In the UK, check areas with chalky or sandy soils where they are more common.
Additional Information
Quick Facts
Other names:
French Partridge
Family:
PhasianidaePredators
Main predators include foxes, stoats, weasels, and birds of prey such as hawks and owls. Domestic cats and dogs can also pose a threat, especially to young birds.
Did You Know?
- Red-legged Partridges can run at speeds up to 30 km/h (around 19 mph).
- They were introduced to the UK as game birds and are now more common there than the native Grey Partridge.
- These birds have the ability to survive without drinking water, obtaining moisture from their food.
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FAQs
Do Red-legged Partridges visit gardens?
Red-legged Partridges occasionally visit gardens, although they are most at home in open farmland. Country gardens adjacent to open fields are most likely to attract these beautiful ground birds.
Similar Birds
References
- 2 3 4
website: BirdLife International. 2021. Alectoris rufa (Europe assessment). The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2021: e.T22678711A166184840.
View source - 1
journalArticle, 1938: Flower, Furter notes on the duration of life in animals. IV. Birds, Proc Zool Soc London, Ser. A:195-235