Alectoris chukar
The Chukar is an Eastern European and Middle Eastern species that was introduced to North America as a gamebird. Most of the established populations are west of the Continental Divide, especially in the Great Basin. It seems to occupy an ecological niche left vacant by grouse and quails and competes little with native species. In fall and winter, Chukars feed in coveys of 5 to 40 birds, and they use their typical chuck or chuck-or call to reassemble scattered coveys. During summer, the call may help disperse breeding pairs. |
I.D.: Sexes similar. Adult: grayish upperparts and breast; white cheeks and throat are bordered completely by black, forming a mask and 'necklace'; black barring on the flanks; reddish-pink bill, eye ring and legs; rufous outer tail feathers. Size: L 13 in. (33 cm). Range: uncommon to rare in the arid lands of Colorado, Utah, Idaho and Wyoming. Habitat: rocky hillsides, dry sagebrush and grasslands in the foothills. Nesting: on the ground; in a shallow scrape lined with grass and feathers; female incubates 9-16 eggs for about 23 days. Feeding: gleans the ground for weed seeds, plucks leaves and fruits from shrubs and occasionally takes insects, especially grasshoppers. Voice: rapid, laughing chuck-chuck-chuck. Similar Species: Gray Partridge: chestnut face; brown belly; no barring on the sides. |
