Differences Between Partridge And Quail, Just The Size?
Although they may be similar to the naked eye, there are many differences between partridge and quail. These birds differ not only in their morphological aspects, but also in their behavior and habits. Next, we will tell you more about partridges and quails to help you get to know them better and recognize them.
General characteristics of the partridge
The term partridge is used to refer to different species of the Phasianidae family, which are native to Asia, Africa, Europe and the Middle East.
They are characterized by being galliform birds of medium size and non-migratory, which nest on the ground. Its nutrition is based on the consumption of varied seeds, according to the availability in its environment and the time of year.
The most common partridge
In Europe and Asia the most common and recognized species is the Perdix perdix , popularly known as the gray partridge. It has also been introduced in the United States and Canada, as a game species.
However, in Spain, the red partridge ( Alectoris rufa ) is usually the most widespread, and lives mainly in plains and small mountains. It is a sedentary and mostly terrestrial bird; It feeds on seeds and organic matter available in its environment.
However, in Latin America some neotropical species of the clade Tinamidae and of the Odontophoridae family are also often called partridge. Similarly, these birds are not related to the ‘real’ partridges of the Old World. Their physical resemblance is solely due to evolutionary convergence.
Quail characteristics
The various species of quail are also galliform birds belonging to the Phasianidae family . However, they are grouped in another genus called Coturnix, while partridges are found in the genus Perdix .
These small, plump-bodied birds are widely distributed throughout Africa and Eurasia. Despite their size, quail have large, strong wings that allow them to fly long distances. This is an essential ability for a migratory bird like the quail, which is optimally adapted to nomadic life.
The most widespread species in Eurasia is the Coturnix coturnix, popularly known as the common quail. It is a plump bird with mostly brown plumage, slightly streaked with black and ocher tones.
Their diet is fundamentally based on the consumption of seeds, especially wild grasses. It also tends to consume small insects and invertebrates to supply its need for protein.
Similarities and differences between partridge and quail
By knowing a little better each of these birds, it is easier to identify the differences between partridge and quail. However, we could also perceive that they are really related and show certain similarities.
Similarities between quail and partridges
Among their similarities we can highlight that both are galliform birds and belong to the same family ( Phasianidae ). However, their morphological, genetic and behavioral differences mean that they are grouped into different genera.
Both birds are extremely appreciated in the international gastronomic market, especially for their tasty and low-fat meat. Quails are also usually bred in captivity for the exploitation of their eggs, with a reduced level of cholesterol.
For culinary lovers, the following maxim usually prevails: ‘of birds the partridge, and better the quail’. Although both meats offer many outstanding nutritional properties and a pleasant, subtle taste on the palate , quail is prized for its delicacy, versatility, and good looks.
Difference between partridge and quail
On the other hand, one of the most obvious differences between partridge and quail is their size. While quail are small and stocky birds, partridges are medium-sized with slender bodies.
In relation to body weight, we also identified a notable differentiation. An adult partridge can weigh about 450 grams, while quail hardly exceed 120 or 130 grams.
Another difference between partridge and quail is that one is a sedentary and non-migratory bird (partridge), while the other travels long distances (quail) and is perfectly adapted to a nomadic life.
As we have seen, the partridge is a non-migratory bird, which usually nests on the ground and lives all year round in the lowlands and plains regions. Quails are migratory birds with strong wings, which usually pass in summer in Europe and undertake a long journey to Africa before the arrival of winter.
