Gray Francolin

Basic Description

The Gray Francolin is a small, understated game bird, subtly marked in earth tones that help it blend into the dry landscapes that it favors. A thin black necklace separates a buffy or orange throat from finely barred underparts. Small family groups stay close to the ground and feed extensively on seeds and insects. Males deliver rollicking songs with a mix of gruff notes and piercing whistles; females sometimes add their voice in a duet. Native to South Asia and Iran, Gray Francolins have been introduced to Hawaii and are common on most of the main islands.