Gray Partridges are very elusive. In all the years I’ve been returning to Montana I’ve never been able to get acceptable images of them until this last trip. Since most folks in North America never get an opportunity to see this species I thought I’d post a few shots of them. Hunters and locals routinely call these birds Hungarian Partridges, or “Huns” for short. Growing up, that’s the only name I knew them by.
1/1250, f/6.3, ISO 500, 500 f/4, 1.4 tc
It’s difficult to catch one of these birds standing still. Usually, whenever you’re anywhere near them, they’re running for cover…
1/1600, f/6.3, ISO 500, 500 f/4, 1.4 tc
as this bird is. And believe me, they run fast!
Anyone who has ever unexpectedly flushed a group of these birds has had an experience they won’t soon forget. The squawking noise they make, combined with the racket from their buzz-saw wings as they erupt in front of you, can be extremely startling – an experience I’ve had many times. Gets the heart pounding, that’s for sure.
1/2000, f/6.3, ISO 500, 500 f/4, 1.4 tc
This is a juvenile. I’ve cropped this image a little more than I like to but I preferred this pose over other shots of juvies I got.
This partridge has a short lifespan, high mortality rate and high reproductive capability. Females produce among the largest single hen clutches of any bird species (up to 20 eggs). And reproductively, this year must have been highly successful for them in nw Montana because I don’t recall having ever seen so many of them as I did this past trip. Which delights me – despite the fact that they’re an introduced species.
Ron
So amazing and sharp. I’ve never seen one, but this is certainly the next best thing. Thanks so much for sharing.
Ron:
Add me to the list of people who have never seen a Gray Partridge. I would love to experience flushing a covey. Terrific photos.
Dave
Thanks Dave. Flushing a group of these birds would definitely get your attention!
Fantastic shots! I’ve never seen one before…
I’ve discovered that lots of folks have never seen this bird before Scott – which surprised me a little because they’re relatively common in that area of Montana.
What amazing camoflague they have. I suspect that if they simply stayed still many people would pass them by. Thanks Ron – another beautiful bird you have brought to my attention.
You’re right Elephant’s Child, they’re easy to miss. That is unless you flush a covey of them right in front of you!
You are so right about them running for cover. I see them regularly at the National Bison Range, but have never achieved an even remotely pleasing photo of them. You beautifully captured the colors and character of their plumage that few people see as they scurry for cover.
Thanks Katie. I’ve never spent time at the National Bison Range, though I’ve driven past it several times. Next time I’ll investigate it if I can.