Chukar (Alectoris chukar) are a type of partridge native to Eurasia. They have been introduced to parts of North America as a game bird. When observing chukar in the wild or keeping them as pets or livestock, it is useful to be able to distinguish males from females. This article will provide tips on identifying the sex of chukar.
Size Differences
The most noticeable difference between male and female chukar is size. Males are larger overall than females. A male chukar typically weighs around 1.5-2.2 lbs. Females weigh approximately 1.1-1.5 lbs. Not only are males heavier, they are also taller. Males stand around 12-13 inches tall. Females are usually 10-12 inches in height. The size dimorphism is likely related to the differences in reproductive strategies between the sexes. Males compete physically with each other for access to females during the breeding season. Larger body size provides an advantage in these fights. Females do not engage in such physical competition, so there has not been the same selection pressure for increased size in females of the species.
Plumage Differences
In addition to differences in size, the plumage patterns of male and female chukar also diverge somewhat. Both sexes display cryptic tan, grey, and brown plumage that helps camouflage them against rocky terrain. However, the markings are more vibrant in males during the breeding season. The blacks, whites, and reds become particularly intense in males in spring. At this time, males may sport bold black and white bands on their flanks along with reddish colored legs and beaks. Outside of breeding condition, the plumage patterns of the sexes are very similar. But even in non-breeding plumage, males tend to show more contrast in their patterning compared to females year round.
Identification Tips Based on Plumage
- Look for bolder plumage patterning with high contrast – likely a male
- Check for reddish colored legs and beaks during spring – signifies a male
- Dull or cryptic overall plumage pattern indicates a female
Behavioral Differences
The behavior of male and female chukar also differs in distinctive ways. Most notably, males engage in conspicuous display behaviors to attract females and repel rival males during the breeding season. Two of the main courtship displays performed primarily by male chukar are:
Waltzing
Males will circle around a female in an elaborate dance while vocalizing and puffing out their feathers. This display demonstrates the male’s physique and health to the female.
Skylarking
Males will call loudly while taking speedy flying runs straight up into the air. They can climb up to 75 feet high while skylarking. This impressive aerial display advertises the male’s fitness. Females are attracted to males who can perform athletic skylarking displays.
Outside of the breeding season, males tend to be slightly more vocal and call more frequently to maintain social contact. Females are not silent, but engage in fewer vocalizations on average compared to males of the species.
Identification Tips Based on Behavior
- Look for dancing, feather puffing, and vocalizing – likely a male in breeding condition
- Pay attention for speedy steep climbs into the air – skylarking males showing off
- Note which individuals are calling more frequently – males vocalize more often
Distribution of Color Markings
Subtle differences in the distribution of color markings can also help identify the sex of chukar partridge. Males tend to have bolder and more extensive black and white bands along their flanks. The black bands in particular spread farther down the body and wings in males compared to females. Females tend to show thinner, less conspicuous black and white bands concentrated mostly on the upper body and chest. The reddish coloration on the legs and beak also covers a larger surface area on males versus females.
Identification Tips Based on Markings
- Look for expansive black flank bands – a male trait
- Thinner, less widely distributed bands indicate a female
- More extensive reddish color on legs and beak signifies a male
Footprints
Even the footprints left behind by male and female chukar differ slightly. A male chukar’s footprint will be noticeably larger overall than a female’s print. The length of the middle toe in particular tends to be longer in males. Measure and compare the size of chukar tracks to help determine the likely sex of any individuals that left them behind. Focus on middle toe length as the most telling indicator of gender based on footprints.
Identification Tips Based on Footprints
- Larger print size indicates a male
- Pay attention to middle toe length – longer in males
- Smaller print size suggests a female
Vocalizations
The calls of male and female chukar also diverge in some noticeable ways. Males deliver a wider range of vocalizations more frequently than females. However, the most telling vocalization difference relates to pitch. Male chukar produce lower-pitched and more resonant calls and clucks compared to females. The larger syrinx, or vocal organ, of males allows them to generate these lower frequency vocalizations that can carry farther over long distances. Listen for lower, richer sounding chuckles and calls to identify male chukar.
Identification Tips Based on Vocalizations
- Listen for lower pitched, resonant clucks and calls – indicates a male
- Higher pitched, lighter sounding calls suggest a female
Conclusion
Telling male and female chukar partridge apart does take some practice and close observation. But paying attention to differences in size, plumage, behavior, markings, footprints, and vocalizations can all provide clues to the gender of individual birds. With experience, the sexes can be quickly differentiated. The most pronounced differences are seen during the breeding season when males intensify their displays. But subtle distinctions in size, feather patterning, and proportions can be used to identify males and females year round. Chukar provide an interesting case study of how divergent reproductive strategies and selection pressures can produce noticeable sexual dimorphism within a single species.
