Gray Partridge

Perdix perdix

The Gray Partridge is native to Eurasia but was introduced into North America in the early 1900's as a game bird.  They have become well established, and can be found through much of the upper Great Plains and parts of the West.  The agricultural lands of eastern South Dakota are an ideal habitat, providing shelter along fencerows and other brushy areas and also a readily available winter food source in waste grain. 

Habitat: Does well in agricultural land where fencerows and other thicker cover are available.  Stubble fields of grain crops are a favorite location during the winter months.  Can also be found in pastures and grasslands.

Diet: Feeds heavily on seeds and grain, relying heavily on waste grain (corn, sunflowers, wheat) during the winter.  Also feeds on insects during the summer months, and green leaves, shoots, and buds.

Behavior: Primarily forages on the ground, although will also take insects and seeds from standing vegetation.  They are usually found in small groups, but can be found singly or in pairs early in the breeding season in spring.

Nesting: May through July

Breeding Map: Breeding Bird Survey map

Song: Low harsh kyerr-r-reck

Migration: Generally non-migratory, although with some local movement.

Similar Species: Chukar

Conservation Status: Still widespread and common in much of their normal range, but with numbers probably below historical highs from the middle of the 20th century.

Further Information: 1) USGS Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Gray Partridge

2) Cornell University's "All About Birds - Gray Partridge"

3) eNature.com: Gray Partridge

Photo Information: June 10th, 2008 - Minnehaha County, South Dakota - Terry Sohl

Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or text links below for additional, higher-resolution Gray Partridge photos.