The chestnut-bellied partridge also known as chestnut-bellied hill-partridge or Javan hill-partridge is a small, up to 28 cm long, partridge with a rufous crown and nape, red legs, grey breast, brown wings, red facial skin, and a black mask, throat and bill. It has a rufous belly with white on the middle. The sexes are similar. The young has a whitish face and a reddish brown bill.
Region
Java, Greater Sunda Islands
Typical Environment
Found in moist montane and submontane evergreen forests on Java, often where dense understory and bamboo thickets provide cover. It keeps to the forest floor, using leaf litter for foraging and concealment. Birds may also use secondary growth and forest edges if sufficient underbrush remains. Nests are placed on the ground, well hidden among roots or dense vegetation. Protected areas in the Javan highlands hold key populations.
Altitude Range
700–2400 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Javan hill-partridge, this shy ground-dweller lives in the montane forests of Java. It forages quietly in the leaf litter and often freezes before scuttling away when disturbed. Pairs or small family coveys keep contact with clear, whistled duets. The species shows little sexual dimorphism, with both sexes sharing the striking mask and chestnut belly.
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; explosive flush over short distances
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family coveys that keep close contact while foraging. Ground nester with a well-concealed scrape lined with leaves. Likely monogamous, with both parents guarding the brood. Outside breeding, small groups remain cohesive and skulk through dense cover.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, whistled notes often given as duets between pair members. Calls can accelerate into a piping series that carries through the understory. Alarm notes are sharper and more abrupt.
