In approximately 25 trips to the Centennial Valley in the past six years I’d never seen Gray Partridges but I found these two birds there two days ago near Lima Reservoir.
I believe this one to be a juvenile due to its significantly smaller size and lack of rufous color on its flanks, wings and tail.
This was the adult, standing right next to the younger bird.
I’m used to seeing these birds on the family farm, also in Montana, but that’s 300 miles north of here. Sibley lists Gray Partridges as “uncommon” and the Red Rock Lakes NWR bird guide lists them as “occasional” (the refuge is in the Centennial Valley).
Largely because of the unattractive setting (a gravel road) these aren’t great images but as documentation I’m delighted to have them. Perhaps I’m more of a birder than I think I am.
Ron
Ron, there’s nothing wrong with being excited about seeing unusual birds. For me, this has been that kind of year. In mid-May we saw Red Knots and a Ruddy Turnstone on Ocracoke Island (seems like that would be late for them to be there). In early July we saw what had to be a Whimbrel on the beach at Duck, NC (only bird I know with that decurved bill). Maybe climate change is making the birds appear in strange places at strange times?
In the photos, it looks like these Partridges have largely bald heads. Am I seeing correctly? I’m totally unfamiliar with Partridges.
Hope you see lots more interesting birds.
Such a treat for you (and us) to see. Thank you.
WOW!
Thats just crazy, Ron. I just came to your blog after posting an image in the NPN avian gallery. Guess What? A Gray Partridge shot here in Northern Utah. I had never seen these birds before last week. Thanks for sharing these images and the unusual coincidence.
I know where the pear tree USED to be, swing and all…but, then my stepmother had it cut down because it was “messy”(it produced pears!). My mother didn’t hav a problem with it because she gave away pears to anyone who wanted them, the horse ate some and we canned a lot of them. We never saw a beautiful partridge like this one, though. They are both healthy looking beauties…Like the subtle colors.
Nice to see them that far afield.
Hey Ron, as the saying goes – “You take ’em when you can get ’em!!! I can’t help thinking of the Christmas song – “A Partridge in a Pear tree” either- where’s the darn pear tree. Needless to say – you are sharing with me a bird I’ve never seen & am happy for both of us that these two came into your view. What I also notice is that they are checking you out too!! I’m happy for you to see birds that are rare to the area – that thrill sensation you get is unbeatable!!
What a wonderful find and shots Ron!
Charlotte