The Chukar Partridge in Nevada

Abstract

Between 5000 and 10,000 chukar partridges (Alectoris rufa chukar) have been liberated in Nevada beginning in 1934. In recent years a transplanting program within the state has been undertaken. The species now is sufficiently abundant, chiefly in rocky mountains of the central and western parts of the state, that in 1948, 1949, and 1950, open seasons were allowed in approx. half of the state. The length of the season varied from 2 to 31 days with a possession limit of 5 birds. The crops of young birds contain many insects. The chief foods of adults appear to be: seeds of Bromus tectorum, filaree, and pinon pine, basal shoots of native bunch grasses; and green grass blades. At all seasons the birds roost among rocks or in open areas instead of in or among trees. In summer the birds are restricted to areas with water. In winter, chukars may move to higher areas from which the snow has been blown away and some move to lower areas if more food is available there. Males may band together in the nesting season. 14 nests averaged 9 eggs.