Habitat relationships of the pyrenean gray partridge

Abstract

Summer habitat relationships of the pyrenean gray partridge (Perdix peridix hispaniensis) were studied in the northern Pyrenees Mountains (France). Six available habitat types were defined, and those selected or avoided were identified. The only habitat type significantly (P < 0.05) selected was at intermediate altitudes, on fairly steep south-exposed slopes, with a moderate cover of woody plants. Two habitat types were significantly avoided. One occurred at low altitudes on mowed plateaus colonized by low woody plants, and the other was at high altitudes on slopes free of low woody plants. We suggest applications of the work in a model that should lead to valid habitat recommendations for restoring partridge populations.