Reintroduction & Conservation

In both Europe and North America, populations of some wild game birds have declined rapidly over the last 75 years. While habitat loss due to intensification of agriculture and a reduction in traditional forestry management techniques are often cited as the primary causes, other issues such as increased predator numbers and disease/ parasite spread from reared and released (penned) birds have also been listed as contributory factors. The Northern Bobwhite, Colinus virginianus, in the United States and the Grey (Hungarian) Partridge, Perdix perdix, in Europe are two iconic gamebirds that have seen their populations plummet by over 80%.  While healthy populations of both species still remain in areas where appropriate management is taking place, they have sadly become locally extinct in many areas within their range.

Re-establishing wild populations of bobwhite or grey partridges through releasing translocated wild birds or extensively reared captive birds is becoming increasingly common. Through our Wild Greys Project scheme, PERDIX has been involved in many gamebird reintroduction projects and has successfully helped re-established wild populations on farms and estates across Europe.  If you would like further information on how we can help your gamebird re-introduction be a success please do not hesitate to contact us.