Altai Snowcock
NameAltai Snowcock
Common NameAltai Snowcock
Scientific NameTetraogallus altaicus
FamilyPhasianidae
Wingspan (cm)85
Length (cm)57.5
Weight (g)2500
Plumage DetailsThis species has a predominantly greyish-brown body with fine vermiculations on the upperparts. Its breast is grey, transitioning to whitish on the belly, and it features distinctive white flanks with bold blackish-brown barring. A yellowish patch is visible around the eye, and the throat is whitish.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its loud, far-carrying whistling calls, often described as a series of clear, ascending or descending whistles that may sometimes end in a trill.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsmountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Altai Mountains and surrounding high ranges across Central Asia, including parts of Russia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and China.
Identifying FeaturesLarge, greyish-brown game bird, White flanks with bold black barring, Yellowish patch around the eye, Stocky build with strong legs, Loud, whistling calls, Found in high-altitude rocky terrain
Description
The Altai Snowcock is a large, partridge-like game bird found in the high-altitude rocky and alpine regions of Central Asia. It is well-camouflaged against its mountainous habitat, spending its time foraging on the ground and often taking flight with powerful wingbeats when disturbed.
