English Partridge

Background

The English partridge, also known as the grey partridge is a small game bird. Distinguishable features of this animal include the brown plumage accompanied by a brown horse-shoe pattern located on the breast. Flight takes place low to the ground, and is as direct as possible.

Habitat

The English partridge can be found Europe wide, with the exceptions of north west Scotland and northern Scandanavia. In addition to this, their distribution within Portugal and Spain are limited to the north. You can find these partridges in grasslands and heath lands.

Diet

This species is a forage feeder, meaning that it will eat; leaves, seeds and insects. In the winter partridges will burrow into the snow in order to feed.

Predators & Threats

Whilst predators such as foxes, crows and stoats exist, the main factor that has lead to the decline of this species is related to anthropogenic causes. Habitat deterioration and poisoning by insecticides have caused a major decline in population levels.

Facts

• Populations for the English partridge have declined by 80% during the last 30 years.
• Their young can fly after only 15 days.

Best Time to Look

All year round.