See-see partridge

Scientific name: Ammoperdix griseogularis

How weight is recorded: Whole weight

Field notes

Appearance

Males display a distinctive grey head and neck with a chestnut patch on the breast and flanks; females are duller overall with buff-grey plumage. Both sexes have rusty-red legs and a compact, rounded body form typical of partridges.

Size and weight

Weight: 140–180 g. Body length: 25–28 cm. Minimal sexual dimorphism in size; females slightly smaller on average.

Habitat

See-see partridges inhabit arid and semi-arid rocky foothills, desert scrublands, and stony plateaus with sparse low vegetation. They favour elevations between 1,500–3,500 m in mountainous terrain with broken ground and minimal tree cover.

Distribution

Range extends across the arid interior of Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and western Central Asia. They occupy rocky valleys and plateau systems from the Alborz Mountains eastward into the Hindu Kush and Pamir regions.

Diet

See-see partridges feed on seeds, plant matter, and invertebrates, with a strong preference for grass and weed seeds; insects and larvae become more important during breeding season.

Behaviour

Highly terrestrial and cryptic; active at dawn and dusk with less movement during midday heat. They move in small coveys of 4–8 birds, running rapidly across open ground and rarely flying unless flushed.

Hunting tips

Look for tracks and droppings near water sources and in sheltered gullies; birds dust-bathe in fine scree. Approach into wind across open stony ground early morning or late afternoon when birds are active. Use calling techniques to locate coveys; they respond readily and may approach steadily rather than flee immediately.

Whole weight

This species is logged by whole weight — the animal weighed entire, as taken.

Where it is hunted

Listed as huntable in 7 countries in Huntify.

Names in other languages

These field notes are general species knowledge, not legal advice. Always check the current seasons, quotas and firearm rules where you hunt.