The Rufous-throated Partridge bird (Arborophila rufogularis) is a species of bird that belongs to the family Phasianidae. This bird is native to the mountain forests of Southeast Asia. It is also called the Rufous-throated Hill Partridge.
The Rufous-throated Partridge bird is a rust-colored bird that is approximately 25-30 cm long and weighs about 380-450 grams. The color of the plumage varies from cinnamon-brown to dark chestnut with black streaks. The head, nape, and upper breast of the bird are rusty-red colored, and the throat is rufous. The tail of the bird is short, and the bill and legs are a pale horn color.
The bird is mainly found in forests, thickets, and undergrowth areas. They are usually seen foraging for food on the forest floor. The Rufous-throated Partridge bird is a shy and solitary bird, and it is rarely seen in groups. They are not migratory birds and are non-territorial. These birds are active during the day, especially during the morning and evening.
The Rufous-throated Partridge bird feeds on insects, buds, seeds, and small fruits. Their diet includes fallen fruits, insects, and seeds that are found on the ground. They also forage on leaf litter and in decaying logs. These birds use their strong legs and bill to scratch and dig the soil to find insect prey.
The breeding season of the Rufous-throated Partridge bird is between March and June. During the breeding season, the bird makes a small scrape on the ground, where the female lays four to six eggs. The male bird helps in incubation, which lasts between 19 to 21 days. The chicks are precocial, which means that they are fully feathered and able to run and feed soon after hatching. The chicks stay with their parents for about six months.
The Rufous-throated Partridge bird isn't threatened or endangered currently, but their habitat destruction due to human activities like deforestation and commercial farming may pose a threat to their population in the future. They are, however, protected by law in some countries, including Thailand, where hunting and capturing them is illegal.