The swamp francolin, also called swamp partridge, is a francolin species native to the foothills of the Himalayas in northern India and Nepal. It is considered extinct in the Ganges-Brahmaputra delta in Bangladesh. It is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
Region
Northern Indian Subcontinent
Typical Environment
Occurs in the Himalayan foothills and adjacent floodplains of northern India and Nepal, chiefly within the Terai grasslands and along the Ganges and Brahmaputra river systems. Favors tall Saccharum and Phragmites stands, swampy edges of oxbow lakes, floodplain meadows, and overgrown canal margins. It also uses sugarcane fields and fallow plots near wetlands, especially outside the breeding season. The species avoids dense forest and prefers mosaics of cover, open ground, and shallow water. Locally extinct in the Ganges–Brahmaputra delta of Bangladesh.
Altitude Range
0–300 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This shy gamebird is tied to tall, seasonally flooded grasslands and reedbeds, making it a good indicator of healthy alluvial wetlands. Rapid conversion of riverine swamps to agriculture and drainage for development has fragmented its habitat and led to local extirpations, including in Bangladesh's delta. It often remains concealed, flushing explosively only at close range. Conservation efforts focus on protecting Terai grasslands and regulating dry-season burning.
Picture from Hume and Marshall.
Temperament
skulking and wary
Flight Pattern
explosive flush with short rapid wingbeats followed by a brief glide
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly, in pairs, or small family coveys, keeping to dense grass cover. Nests on the ground in a well-concealed scrape lined with grass, often near water. Breeding coincides with late dry to early monsoon periods when grass cover is optimal.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, far-carrying series of harsh, cackling notes delivered at dawn and dusk. Calls are rhythmic and repeated, often given from a low perch or from within tall grass.
