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.
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
| Europe | UK breeding* | UK wintering* | UK passage* | | - | 72,000-200,000 territories | - | - |