The Arabian partridge is a species of bird in the family Phasianidae, native to the southern Arabian Peninsula. Two subspecies are recognised, A. m. melanocephala and A. m. guichardi. It sometimes hybridises with Philby's partridge and with the rock partridge.
Region
Southern Arabian Peninsula
Typical Environment
Occurs mainly in the highlands and escarpments of Yemen and southwestern Saudi Arabia, with populations on rugged slopes, wadis, and terraced fields. It favors rocky hillsides with scattered shrubs and patches of juniper or acacia woodland. Birds often use agricultural terraces for foraging and nearby cliffs for roosting and escape. Water is taken from springs or dew when available, and they may descend into wadis during dry periods.
Altitude Range
800–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Arabian partridge is a ground-dwelling gamebird of rocky highlands in the southern Arabian Peninsula. It sometimes hybridises with Philby's partridge and with the rock partridge where ranges meet. Coveys often hold tight on slopes and erupt in noisy, whirring flight when flushed. Its bold black-and-white throat pattern and blackish head help separate it from other Alectoris partridges.
Temperament
wary and secretive, forming tight coveys
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with explosive flush; prefers running uphill
Social Behavior
Outside the breeding season, birds gather in small to medium coveys that feed and roost together. Pairs form in spring; nests are shallow scrapes on the ground hidden under shrubs or rocks. Clutches are relatively large, and both adults lead the brood after hatching.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
The call is a rolling, chuckling series of chuk-chuk-chuk notes that accelerate and descend. Males give loud, far-carrying territorial calls at dawn and dusk; contact calls within coveys are softer clucks and whistles.
Plumage
Compact, round-bodied partridge with grey-brown upperparts, buff underparts, and boldly barred flanks. White throat is sharply bordered by a broad black necklace that extends onto the chest. The head appears dark, giving a capped look, with a pale face and strong facial contrast. Bill and legs are red; tail shows rufous tones.
Diet
Feeds mainly on seeds, grains, and green shoots, supplemented by leaves, buds, and berries when available. Insects and other small invertebrates, especially termites and beetles, are taken more frequently by chicks and during the breeding season. It forages by walking and pecking on open ground and along terrace edges. During dry spells, it may concentrate feeding near cultivated plots or moist wadis.
Preferred Environment
Rocky slopes, scrubby hillsides, field margins, and terraced agriculture in montane zones. Often seen near juniper or acacia patches that provide cover and shade. Visits water sources or dew-laden areas in early morning.
