Arabian Partridge
Alectoris melanocephala
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<birdfyi-bird slug="alectoris-melanocephala"></birdfyi-bird>About
A large Phasianidae partridge (~623 g) of rocky wadis, lava fields, and arid hillsides in the Arabian Peninsula. Boldly marked with a black head, white supercilium, and chestnut flank bars. Inhabits steep rocky terrain; feeds on seeds, leaves, and invertebrates. Nationally protected in several states; Least Concern.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 37.1 cm | 14.6 in |
| Weight | 623.0 g | 21.98 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Grey-blue upperparts; white flank bars edged black; large white face and throat with bold black surround extending up to black crown; chestnut-barred flanks; red bill and legs. Largest Alectoris partridge.
Habitat & Range
Geographic Range
Endemic to the Arabian Peninsula; resident of rocky desert hillsides and wadi slopes in Yemen, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, below 3,000 m.
Diet & Feeding
Eats seeds, leaves, berries, and invertebrates in rocky Arabian scrubland and wadis.
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Nest type: SC. Incubation: 24-25 days.
Clutch Size
5-11
Sound
Song
Loud, deep 'chuck-chuck-CHUKKAR' calls from Arabian Peninsula rocky wadis; lower and more resonant than other Alectoris. Alarm is rapid harsh cackle. Pairs call in duet at dawn from rocky terrain.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes (Gamebirds) |
| Family | Phasianidae (Pheasants & Partridges) |
| Genus | Alectoris |
| Species | Alectoris melanocephala |
Distribution
Arabian Partridge has been recorded in 2 countries.
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External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
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Similar Birds
Other species in the Phasianidae family