Chukar

Modified from monkeyspit.net

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~Birds signal life and indicate a healthy environment.~

 

Chukar on Fence by Michael Weeks in Boise Idaho

 

The name “partridge” has come to be used for various medium-sized, stout-bodied species across the Old World (this includes Africa, Asia, Australia, and Europe).  There are ninety-two different species of partridges in eighteen different genera all over the world.  Alectoris chukar, or more commonly known as just ‘Chukar’ partridges, are small, attractive birds used for release for hunting or for show.  This species is also the national bird of Pakistan.  They got their name from the sound of their call, “choo-kar.”  Chukar Call

 

Chukar in Brush by Jeff Lipsman

Overall, partridges are considered “handsome” birds.  They are medium-sized birds that are plumper than a quail, but smaller than a pheasant.  Both their feet and legs don’t have any feathers, and in the chukar, they are red.  They weigh one to two pounds.  Chukars are easy to identify by their prominent face pattern and barred flanks.  This is considered “bib and tucker with striped waistcoat.”  The black stripe over its eye traces down the neck and meets beneath the throat, forming the ‘bib.’  Both the male and female chukars have the same distinguishing markings, so it is extremely difficult to tell them apart.