Caspian snowcock

Scientific name: Tetraogallus caspius

How weight is recorded: Whole weight

Field notes

Appearance

Large gray partridge with robust build; males show darker plumage with prominent white wing patches and pale underparts. Females duller overall; both sexes have red orbital skin and pale legs.

Size and weight

Males 600–900 g, females 500–750 g; body length 45–50 cm.

Habitat

Alpine and subalpine rocky terrain above 2,000 m, with sparse vegetation, scree slopes, and grassy meadows. Prefers areas with access to water and cliff faces for escape cover.

Distribution

Endemic to high mountains of the Caucasus, Elbrus massif, and adjacent ranges from roughly 43–45°N. Found only in rocky alpine zones at elevation.

Diet

Primarily alpine vegetation including grasses, herbs, and seeds; switches to buds and leaves in winter; young chicks feed on insects and plant material.

Behaviour

Diurnal forager, most active at dawn and dusk. Highly gregarious outside breeding season, forming flocks of 5–20 birds. Runs upslope when flushed; rarely sustained flight.

Hunting tips

Look for distinctive three-toed tracks in snow or soft scree and dark droppings on exposed ridges. Approach from below on south-facing slopes during morning feeding; use terrain folds and rock outcrops for concealment. Move slowly and glass likely benches; birds often sit tight before flushing upslope.

Whole weight

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

Where it is hunted

Listed as huntable in 5 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.