Red-legged Partridge

A large, colorful game bird native to Southwestern Europe. It has a bright red bill and legs. A bold black 'necklace' borders its white throat. Its flanks feature striking bars. It prefers dry, open environments like sandy heaths and large farm fields. When disturbed, it usually runs rather than flies.

These partridges live in small groups called 'coveys'. If threatened, they run at high speed across the ground. They only take flight in short, noisy bursts if absolutely necessary. Their song is a rhythmic, mechanical 'chuk-chuk-chukar'. They nest in shallow scrapes on the ground hidden under grass or bushes.