Crimson-headed Partridge

Overview

The crimson-headed partridge, Haematortyx sanguiniceps, is a striking bird endemic to Borneo. It is the only member of its genus and is classified as least concern by the IUCN, though its population is believed to be declining.

Identification

• Males feature a dark blackish body with crimson red heads, necks, breasts, and undertail coverts, accompanied by a yellow bill and grey feet with 1–3 tarsal spurs.
• Females are duller with brownish-black plumage, orangish-red heads and breasts, a brownish-black bill, and lack spurs.
• The species measures approximately 25 cm in length and weighs around 330 g.
• Its song is described as a harsh, loud repeated call rendered as 'KRO-krang' or 'kong-krrang', often given alternately by pairs.

Habitat

This species inhabits lower montane forest, including kerangas heath forest, alluvial forest, and poor-quality forest on sandy soils in the northern and central parts of Borneo. It is primarily found at elevations between 1,000 and 1,700 m, though it has been recorded as low as 185 m and as high as 3,050 m.

Diet

The crimson-headed partridge feeds on berries, insects, and small crustaceans. It forages for this food from the forest floor and short vegetation.

Did you know?

Its genus name, Haematortyx, is derived from the Ancient Greek words for 'blood' and 'quail', while the specific epithet sanguiniceps translates to 'blood-headed' in Modern Latin.