34. Breeding Biology of Chakoor partridge (Alectoris chukar) in Bajaur, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan: Critically affected by eggs collection and predation

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to explore the main barriers responsible for the breeding success of chakoor partridge in four different mountainous locations of Bajaur during breeding seasons 2018 and 2019 respectively. This research work will enhance protection for the future progeny and grants beauty to the environment. Scientifically this is the first contribution in which a total of nineteen nests were explored with the help of a systematic survey and local shepherds. Data about breeding biology, nest characterization, and destructive factors recorded. The average clutch size 12.86±1.3 eggs and incubation 24.04±0.6 days of (n=238). While 6 nests consisting of 75 eggs were destroyed by egg collection and predation. The overall hatching success was (69%). The egg’s look was oblong with a smooth texture. The average weight of eggs 18.35±0.6 (g) and length 3.28±0.07 (cm) with diameter 3.08±0.07 (cm²). The look of nests was partial round, which was constructed from local dry grasses Fimbristylis squarrosa 60%, Cynodon dactylon, Desmostachya bipinnata, Dichanthium annulatum 35%, and feathers along with undifferentiated materials 5%. Similarly the average nests diameter 26.42±3.3 (cm²), cup diameter 24.12±3.2 (cm²) and cup depth 6.19±0.4 (cm). This study concluded that chakoor perform their breeding activity from May to August in the mountainous habitat however, in absence of eggs collection, nest destruction, and predation, the breeding success will be more secure. We recommend that to generate awareness in public about this valuable bird and the implementation of regulations is required on a prior basis.

Keywords:  Bajaur; Breeding biology; Chakoor partridge; Egg collection; Nest predation

http://dx.doi.org/10.19045/bspab.2021.100094