Photo 21. Physical characteristics: The male has a glossy black head with a large white cheek patch and a conspicuous chestnut collar. The breast is deep black with fine white spots, while the wings and back are intricately patterned in brown, cream and black, providing natural camouflage. It is a medium-sized member of the pheasant family, about 33–36 centimetres long. Habitat and distribution in Kurdistan: Unlike the Chukar, which favours higher bare mountains, the Black Francolin prefers lower plains, river edges, farmland and areas with tall grass and dense scrub. It is well represented in Kurdistan’s plains, warm zones and semi-mountainous areas. The male’s spring call is a characteristic sound of these landscapes. Diet and behaviour: It is omnivorous, feeding mainly on plant seeds, grains and tender leaves, while taking many insects, worms and ants during breeding to provide protein for chicks. Males call from slightly elevated positions to attract females and defend territory. When threatened it usually runs and hides, but if flushed it makes a fast, heavy, low and direct flight.
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