Black francolin

The Black Francolin, formerly known as the Black Partridge, is a captivating gamebird belonging to the pheasant family, Phasianidae. This bird holds the distinction of being the state bird of Haryana, India.

Male Black Francolins are easily identifiable with their black plumage decorated with white patches, while females display predominately brown feathers with a chestnut-colored nape. These birds typically inhabit scrublands, particularly those with cultivated crops and proximate water sources. One of their most distinctive features is their unique call, which becomes notably prominent during the breeding season.

When it comes to nesting, Black Francolins prefer tall grasslands, laying between 10 to 14 eggs per clutch. The female assumes the responsibility of incubating the eggs for about 18 to 19 days, with the breeding season extending from April to June. Their diet is quite varied, encompassing seeds, insects, and small worms. These birds are monogamous and are adept at handling cold weather.

In terms of behavior, Black Francolins tend to remain concealed and often choose to quietly retreat rather than fly when they sense danger. Their loud, ringing calls are most commonly heard in the mornings and evenings during the breeding season.

Geographically, the range of the Black Francolin extends from southeastern Turkey to northeastern India and Bangladesh. There are six recognized subspecies of this bird, each occupying different regions.