Endemic to Europe, prefers rocky slopes and dry areas of alpine forest, up to 3,000 m (10,000 ft), but, in some regions, can be found in open flatter areas with sparse grass and low bushes. Highly territorial, their song is an irregular series of "chick chek pe-ti-chek chi-chek" notes. Often runs away rather than flying. Throat is white, while similar looking Chukar has a creamy throat; virtually no overlap in range with other similar species.