Grey Partridge

Perdix perdix

A partridge in the Hellabrunn Zoo. IUCN Red List endangerment category: Least concern
  • Family
    Pheasants (Phasianidae)
  • Habitat
    steppes and heathlands and agricultural land

Dwindling food sources

The grey partridge’s diet varies according to the season. In summer, adults feed mainly on insects and worms; in other seasons they eat plant-based foods such as grass leaves, cereals and seeds. The chicks feed almost exclusively on animal-based foods. The intensive use of pesticides in agriculture reduces the partridge’s food supply.

The grey partridge is not globally endangered. In Germany, however, it is highly endangered due to intensive agricultural practices.

Distribution

Distribution