Grey partridges are very common in India, except in the Northeastern states. They are greyish brown in colour and have a medium-sized body.
These partridges prefer living in dry areas, especially in grasslands and in the neighbourhood of villages. Seeds, berries and insects are in their favourite food.
They make their nest in the outer edges of certain cereal fields like winter wheat. Although their nests are on the ground, they are fond of roosting in thorny trees. Male partridges have a more robust body. These birds can fly only for short distances on rounded wings.
In some places, people tame young grey partridges. Though it is illegal like cockfighting sport, partridges are also used for fighting in some parts of our country. In these fights people around the birds are enthusiastic spectators. There will be prizes waiting for the winning bird.
Grey partridges are still very common and hence they are considered to be “of Least Concern” in the IUCN Red List.