Chestnut-throated monal-partridge, also known as chestnut-throated partridge or Verreaux's monal-partridge, is a bird species in the family Phasianidae. It is found only in central China. Its natural habitat is boreal forest.
Region
Central China (Qinling–Minshan ranges)
Typical Environment
Found in subalpine coniferous and mixed forests with dense understory, including rhododendron and bamboo thickets. It favors steep, montane slopes, forest edges, and shrubby clearings where cover is abundant. In winter it may descend slightly to lower-elevation mixed woods and scrub. The species remains largely within intact, remote mountain habitats and avoids heavily disturbed lowlands.
Altitude Range
1800–4200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called Verreaux's monal-partridge, this high-elevation pheasant relative is restricted to the mountains of central China. It often forages in pairs or small family groups and gives clear, whistling calls at dawn. Adapted to cold, snowy forests, it makes short altitudinal movements rather than long migrations.
Temperament
secretive and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides
Social Behavior
Typically encountered in pairs or small family groups, maintaining territories within dense montane cover. Ground-nesting, with a shallow scrape concealed under shrubs or among roots. Likely monogamous, and adults accompany chicks while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives clear, whistling, piping notes often delivered at dawn and dusk across valleys. Alarm calls are harsher, chattering clucks when disturbed.
Plumage
Densely patterned, scaly-barring on the body with a rich chestnut throat set off against greyer head and neck. Upperparts are olive-brown to grey-brown with fine vermiculations; underparts show barred or scaly appearance. Tail is graduated and barred rufous-brown. Sexes are similar, with males slightly brighter and larger.
Diet
An opportunistic omnivore that digs and scratches for roots, bulbs, and tubers. It also consumes seeds, berries, and shoots when available. Invertebrates such as beetles, ants, and larvae are taken especially during the breeding season to provide protein for growing chicks.
Preferred Environment
Feeds on the forest floor in dense coniferous or mixed woods, along edges, and in rhododendron or bamboo understory. Often forages near fallen logs, rock outcrops, and seepage areas where soil is soft.
