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Key information: You will usually hear a Chukar, before you see it. It has a loud and repetitive call (‘chuk-chuk-chuk’). It can be found in a wide variety of habitats, from coastal to mountainous areas. It nests on the ground. Chicks walk as soon as they hatch and stay with their parents in flocks. When a mother Chukar senses danger, she pretends to be injured to draw the attention of predators away from her chicks.

Length: 32 – 35 cm

Habitat: Mountains and forests, scrub and bushes, farmland

When they can be seen: All year round

What they eat: Seeds

In Cyprus: Can be seen all over Cyprus

Status: Resident breeder

Illustration by Paschalis Dougalis