RSPB
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Conservation status: Introduced

Larger than the grey partridge, it has a large white chin and throat patch, bordered with black. It has a greyish body with bold black flank stripes, and a chestnut-sided tail. It is an introduced species, brought to the UK from continental Europe, where it is largely found in France and Spain.

Overview

Latin name

Alectoris rufa

Family

Partridges, quails, pheasants and allies (Phasianidae)

Where to see them

Most numerous in England, especially in the east, with some birds in the Welsh borders and in eastern Scotland. Usually seen in groups in open fields.

When to see them

All year round

What they eat

Seeds and roots.

Population

EuropeUK breeding*UK wintering*UK passage*
-72,000-200,000 territories--

Distribution

Key

Illustrations

Audio

Jordi Calvet, Xeno-canto

Characteristics

Red-legged partridge

Red-legged partridge
  • Size: between blackbird-pigeon
  • Feather colours: brown, black, white, blue, orange, grey, cream/buff
  • Beak colours: red/pink
  • Beak length: short
  • Beak thickness: short
  • Beak shape: short
  • Leg colour: pink/flesh, red
  • Behaviour: part of flock, on ground, bird walks/runs on the ground

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