Hello, everyone! The owner of that voice is actually a very charming bird, the Chinese Bamboo Partridge. Learning about this bird might add a new layer of enjoyment to your nature experiences!
The Chinese Bamboo Partridge measures about 27 cm in length. It has a greyish eyebrow-like pattern extending from its head above its eyes, and its back features a mix of dark brown and grey mottling. Its belly feathers are a warm yellow-brown, and its chest is dotted with reddish-brown spots, giving it an overall warm coloration.
This bird mainly inhabits temperate regions south of Honshu where there is no snow in winter. You can spot them year-round around human residences, farmlands, and mixed forests. With its round body, short tail, and sturdy legs, the Chinese Bamboo Partridge is not much of a flyer but is very adept at running on the ground. Occasionally, you may see it flutter away in a rush, which is quite endearing.
In the Taisho era, the Taiwan subspecies of the Chinese Bamboo Partridge was introduced to Japan as pets. They have had minimal impact on the ecosystem and are also hunted. Over the long years, they have become familiar birds in Japan.
The call of the Chinese Bamboo Partridge resonates well, but actually spotting one can be quite challenging. They are very cautious and quickly run away at the slightest sign of danger.
If you hear the delightful call of the Chinese Bamboo Partridge, take a moment to look around. Spotting one will surely brighten your day! Until next time.
