Red-Legged Partridge

Scientific name: Alectoris rufa

Did you know: The Red-Legged Partridge, also called, ‘French partridge’, was first introduced to the UK in the 1700s from Western Europe and has since become a familiar sight in certain UK regions!

What Do Red-Legged Partridges Look Like? (how to identify them)

Red-Legged Partridges are larger than their Grey Partridge counterparts, measuring 32-34 cm in length with a wingspan of 47-50cm. They are distinguished by their large white chins and throat patches that are bordered by black.

Their body is greyish, adorned with bold black flank stripes and a chestnut-sided tail.

Differences Between Male And Female Red-Legged Partridges

The adult male partridge has a rounded orange head, red bill, and black breast, with white flanks, a brown back, and a black tail. Females are primarily pale brown with a darker back and crown, and a whitish face. Eclipse males resemble females but retain the red bill.

What Do Red-Legged Partridges Eat?

These birds primarily feed on seeds and roots, foraging on the ground in their preferred habitats.

Where Do Red-Legged Partridges Live? (inc. migration info)

Native to southwestern Europe, the Red-Legged Partridge has established itself in flat areas of England and Wales. They are non-migratory, forming flocks outside the breeding season, and prefer dry lowlands such as farmland and open stony areas.

Bird Calls & Songs (the unique voices of Red-Legged Partridges)

The vocalisations of Red-Legged Partridges are characterised by coarse, raspy chuckles. When asserting their territory, they emit a call that begins quietly and escalates into a loud sequence of rhythmic, two or three-note ‘chuk-chuk’ sounds.

When startled, these birds issue a high-pitched, shrieking sound to raise alarm.

Fun Red-Legged Partridge Facts (kid friendly)

Known for its bright red legs and beak.
It’s larger than a Grey Partridge but smaller than a Pheasant.
Prefers to run rather than fly when disturbed.
The young take insects for protein.
Forms large flocks in winter, often mixing with other duck species.
Has been known to cohabit with wild rabbits.
Can be spotted in areas of England, including Gloucestershire and Northamptonshire.
Part of the pheasant family, Phasianidae.
Introduced to the UK for game purposes.
Faces threats from habitat loss and overhunting in its native range.