Chestnut-breasted Partridge

Overview

The chestnut-breasted partridge (Arborophila mandellii) is a near-threatened partridge species endemic to the eastern Himalayas north of the Brahmaputra. Its estimated population is less than 10,000 individuals, with threats including forest degradation and hunting.

Identification

• Chestnut breast-band and grey belly.
• More rufescent crown and head-sides compared to the similar rufous-throated partridge.
• White gorget and entirely chestnut upper breast.
• Distinctive partridge plumage with notable chestnut coloring.

Habitat

Endemic to the eastern Himalayas north of the Brahmaputra, occurring in Bhutan, Darjeeling, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and south-eastern Tibet at elevations from 350 to 2,500 m. It is known from at least three protected areas, including Singalila National Park and Namdapha National Park.

Did you know?

The scientific name commemorates the Italian naturalist Louis Mandelli. In 2015, the first photograph of this species in the wild was taken in Arunachal Pradesh.