Grey Francolin
NameGrey Francolin
Common NameGrey Francolin
Scientific NameOrtygornis pondicerianus
FamilyPhasianidae
Wingspan (cm)51.5
Length (cm)31.5
Weight (g)325
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly grey-brown with fine, wavy black barring across the body. The face is pale buff with a dark eye-stripe and a pale supercilium. The throat is buff, often bordered by a thin dark line. The wings show rufous patches, and the outer tail feathers are rufous. Legs are reddish.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a loud, distinctive, and repetitive series of notes often described as "kati-kat-kati-kat" or "piti-piti-piti," especially prominent during the breeding season.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to the Indian subcontinent, including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and parts of Iran. It has also been introduced to other regions like the United States (Hawaii) and parts of the Middle East.
Identifying Featuresgrey-brown finely barred plumage, rufous patches on wings and outer tail, pale buff face and throat, dark eye-stripe and pale supercilium, reddish legs, short dark bill
Description
The Grey Francolin is a medium-sized ground-dwelling bird with a distinctive grey-brown plumage finely barred with black. It is known for its loud, repetitive call and is often found foraging in open scrubland and cultivated fields, typically in pairs or small groups.
