Francolino di monte

The Francolino di Monte is a small tetraon measuring between 35 and 39 cm in length. This bird has finely ornamented plumage: the upper parts are gray, while the wings are brown, and the lower parts are mottled white with brown. The male is easily recognized by its small erectile crest and black throat, which is edged with white. In contrast, the female has a shorter crest and a pale throat, without the characteristic black color. When she flies, her gray tail with a black tip can be seen.

The mountain francolin is a shy species that prefers wooded, hilly or mountainous habitats, where it feeds on seeds, berries, roots and small invertebrates. During the courtship season, the male emits distinctive calls to attract the female, while the latter lays her eggs in a nest on the ground. Despite its shyness, when disturbed, the francolin may rise briefly in swift flights, but it generally moves to the ground, where it finds protection due to its camouflage.

This species, widespread mainly in South and East Asia, has also been introduced into some European areas, and is prized for its meat. Although it is not threatened globally, loss of its habitat and intensive hunting may pose local threats.