Chukar in Canon City

Chukar, a bird in the partridge family, is a species that was introduced into North America. The first introduction occurred in 1893 when 5 pairs were shipped from Karachi, India. Subsequently a number more introductions were made to 1970 with a total of almost 800,000 birds released in 41 states. This was done because this species is a favorite of hunters.

Though Chukar have been breeding in the west for a number of years, the closest wild population is near Grand Junction on the west slope. So when I saw one by the MacKenzie bridge in Canon City today I was quite surprised. Earlier today I was also surprised to see a large quail-like bird in an area along the Arkansas River not far from the MacKenzie bridge. At that point I only had a very brief look at the bird from behind as it moved into the brush, leaving me wondering what bird I had seen.

As the photo shows, Chukar are a distinctive looking species. The bird was feeding at the edge of MacKenzie. It was smart enough to withdraw into the brushy area when vehicles drove near it.

I suspect that the bird I saw earlier today was likely another Chukar. I can only expect that these are escapees from some captive population in the area. Given the very mild climate in Canon City, the birds could survive here.

SeEtta