Game birds

Mouse over links for pictures; click for detail page.

The two partridge species are both gregarious birds forming groups called 'covies' in the winter, whirring away on fast wings low over the ground when disturbed. Red-legged partridge is an introduced species from southern Europe, identified by its bold black-and-white striped sides and black-and-white face pattern. Grey partridge is our native species, unfortunately now rare in many places, it is smaller with pale grey chest and neck, brick red face and a broad black belly spot.

Pheasant is an introduced game bird from Asia. Over the years many races have been brought in, which has produced a great variety of plumages in the cock birds.