Family: Phasianidae, Pheasants and Grouse view all from this family

Description 13-15 1/2" (33-39 cm). Similar in size and shape to Gray Partridge. Light brown back and wings; creamy-white belly; gray-tinged cap, breast, and rump. White cheek and throat framed by broad black band. Bold chestnut and black diagonal striping on flanks; bright rufous outer tail feathers. Bill and legs orange-red.

Habitat Rocky arid hillsides and canyons.

Nesting 8-15 whitish eggs, spotted with brown, in a nest lined with grass and feathers in the shelter of rocks or brush.

Range Resident from British Columbia and Alberta south to California and Colorado. Native to Eurasia.

Voice   A loud fast chuck-chuck-chuck; various cackling calls.

Discussion Best known for its loud call, the Chukar has been successfully introduced to the West from the dry Mediterranean area of southern Europe. It is a hardy bird, able to outrun a hunter. Outside the breeding season, it moves about in coveys of up to 40 birds.