The sand partridge is a gamebird in the pheasant family Phasianidae of the order Galliformes, gallinaceous birds.
Region
Middle East and Arabian Peninsula
Typical Environment
Found from the Sinai and Negev through Israel and Jordan into the Arabian Peninsula, including suitable arid regions of Saudi Arabia, Oman, Yemen, and the UAE. It inhabits rocky deserts, stony slopes, and wadis with sparse scrub, often near cliffs or boulder-strewn foothills. The species avoids vast dune fields and prefers broken terrain that offers cover and vantage. It typically remains close to reliable water sources, visiting them in the cool hours.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The sand partridge is a small desert gamebird of the pheasant family that favors rocky hillsides and dry wadis. It often runs rather than flies, exploding into short, whirring flights when flushed and then gliding downslope. Coveys keep close to scarce water sources and are most vocal at dawn and dusk. Its subtle plumage helps it blend perfectly with sun-baked stone and sand.
Illustration depicting the plumage of a male sand partridge.
Illustration depicting the plumage of a female sand partridge.
Female sand partridge.
Temperament
wary and secretive but social in small coveys
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats followed by low glides
Social Behavior
Outside the breeding season it forms small coveys that keep tight to broken terrain and move in single file along ridgelines and wadis. Pairs form in spring; the nest is a simple ground scrape tucked under a rock or shrub. Chicks are precocial and follow adults soon after hatching.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are clear, piping whistles and rolling, chuckling calls that carry across rocky slopes. Most calling occurs at first light and toward dusk, aiding contact within coveys. Alarm notes are sharp and clipped.
