Perdix

Perdix is a genus of Galliform gamebirds known collectively as the 'true partridges'. The genus name is the Latin for "partridge", and is itself derived from Ancient Greek perdix. These birds are unrelated to the subtropical species that have been named after the partridge due to similar size and morphology. There are representatives of Perdix in most of temperate Europe and Asia. One member of the genus, the grey partridge, has been introduced to the United States and Canada for the purpose of hunting. They are closely related to grouse, koklass, quail and pheasants

Contents

• Gray partridge phasianidae perdix perdix male and female
• Gray partridge phasianidae perdix perdix male vocalizing
• Species
• References

These are non-migratory birds of the steppes and similar open country, though nowadays they are more associated with agricultural land. The nest is a linedground scrape in or near cover. They feed on a wide variety of seeds and some insect food.

These are medium-sized partridges with dull-coloured bills and legs, streaked brown upperparts, and rufous tails with barring on the flanks. Neither sex has spurs on the legs, and the only plumage distinction is that females tend to be duller in appearance.

Grey and Daurian partridges are very closely related and similar in appearance, and form a superspecies. Tibetan partridge has a striking black and white face pattern, black breast barring and 16 tail feathers instead of the 18 of the other species.

None of the species is threatened on a global scale, but the two more widespread partridges are over-hunted in parts of their range. The grey partridge has been badly affected by agricultural changes, and its range has contracted considerably.

The Tibetan partridge seems secure in its extensive and often inaccessible range on the Tibetan plateau.

The bird shares its name with the nephew of Daedalus of Greek mythology, who was transformed into the bird when his uncle murdered him in jealousy. He was killed when thrown headlong down from the sacred hill of Minerva, so, mindful of his fall, the bird does not build its nest in the trees, nor take lofty flights and avoids high places.

Perdix is the name given to Autonomous Drones, designed/developed for military use, currently being field tested by the Pentagon. "Developed by 20-30 somethings' at MIT Lincoln Labs."