Arabian partridge Alectoris melanocephala

Handsome partridge of southern Arabia. Pale gray overall, with a tan patch on the neck, black-and-white slashes along the sides, and a complicated black-and-white facial pattern. In flight, shows dark wingtips and black sides to the tail. Found on rocky hillsides with significant amounts of vegetation. Usually in small groups. The most common vocalization is a series of “chok” calls that becomes quicker and more emphatic as it progresses. Similar to Philby’s Partridge, but distinguished by the white throat, black crown, and in flight by the lack of chestnut in the tail.