The Udzungwa forest partridge, also known as the Udzungwa partridge, is a small, approximately 29 centimetres (11 in) long, boldly barred, brownish partridge with rufous face, grey underparts, olive-brown crown and upperparts. It has a red bill, brown iris and yellow legs. The sexes are similar.
Region
Eastern Arc Mountains, Tanzania
Typical Environment
Occurs in moist, evergreen montane forests of the Udzungwa Mountains, especially mature primary forest with dense leaf litter. It favors shaded gullies, stream margins, vine tangles, and patches of bamboo within closed-canopy forest. The species is strongly tied to intact understory structure and avoids heavily degraded or open habitats. Its range is highly localized and fragmented within protected blocks.
Altitude Range
1200–2000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Discovered by science in 1994, this secretive partridge is confined to Tanzania’s Udzungwa Mountains and represents a unique African lineage in the genus Xenoperdix. It forages quietly on the forest floor and is threatened by habitat loss and snaring. Conservation efforts focus on protecting remaining montane forest and reducing hunting pressure.
Temperament
shy and elusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; explosive flush over short distances
Social Behavior
Typically encountered in pairs or small family coveys that keep to dense understory. Nests are placed on the ground, concealed in leaf litter, with a small clutch. Pairs are thought to be monogamous and maintain discreet territories.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives soft, whistled notes often delivered as antiphonal duets between mates. Calls are subdued but carry in still forest, sometimes accelerating into a short series.
