Gray Partridge - Pheasant Hunting - Upland Hunting
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Description
The Gray Partridge is a game bird that has a rusty face, tail, and a dark belly patch. It's well known for its consistent walks in grasslands and agricultural fields where it feeds on seeds. This bird lays a lot of eggs, with even more than 22 eggs than any other bird species. However, the bird has a short lifespan and high mortality rates. According to a recent study, the life expectancy of these birds was proven to be around 1.8 years for adult birds, with a maximum age of 4years.
Shape and size
This chicken-like bird has a rotund body, a short tail, a small head, and a thick bill. Additionally, it has short rounded wings for flying in case theres a danger or when moving from one part to another. The average length for both bird sexes is 30-33cm. On the other hand, the average weight is 385-500g. Finally, the wingspan is 53-56cm.
Color pattern
The bird is usually gray above and has some rusty stripes on its sides and an orange face. Its tail is also rusty.
Habitat
The preferred habitats for the Gray Partridge include grain fields and grasslands. Most of the population of these birds were found in wheat belts in North America and North Europe. The bird has also benefited from various traditional agricultural practices that include maintaining hedgerows and limiting the use of pesticides. However, the Gray Partridge population is declining in regions with intensive agriculture, although predation and weather changes have also significantly impacted their numbers in general.
Behavior
In most cases, the Gray Partridges dont have a permanent territory, especially during the non-breeding seasons. They usually live in huge groups, also called coveys. The male birds become very aggressive to other male birds during the mating season. The male and female Gray Partridges pair up during the spring for mating.
