Recently, a White-cheeked Partridge (Arborophila atrogularis) was rescued near Dehing Patkai National Park.

About White-Cheeked Partridge
The White-cheeked Partridge (Arborophila atrogularis) is a shy, ground-dwelling bird native to the forests of Southeast Asia. Its name comes from the distinct white cheek patches on its head. Due to habitat loss and hunting, its population is in decline, and it is classified as "Near Threatened" by the IUCN. 

Characteristics

• Appearance: A gray-brown partridge with a contrasting white cheek patch, a dark throat, and finely patterned feathers. It has red skin around its eyes, a black bill, and orange to red legs.
• Size: The bird is relatively small, measuring about 25–28 cm in length.
• Behavior: Like other Arborophila partridges, it is secretive and seldom seen in the open, preferring to move furtively within dense undergrowth. It is most active at dawn and dusk.
• Vocalization: Its call is a series of paired, mellow whistles, which are often heard early or late in the day. 

Habitat and distribution

• Habitat: It inhabits the dense undergrowth of primary and secondary evergreen forests, as well as adjacent scrubland, bamboo, and grassland areas.
• Distribution: Its range includes Northeast India (particularly Assam, Mizoram, and Meghalaya), northern Myanmar, northeast Bangladesh, and southern China. It is typically found at altitudes below 750 m in India but up to 1,220 m in other parts of Southeast Asia. 

Diet

• Foraging: As a terrestrial species, the White-cheeked Partridge forages on the forest floor.
• Foods: Its diet includes seeds, berries, shoots, and assorted invertebrates.

Conservation status

• Threats: The main threats to the species are habitat loss from logging and shifting agriculture, as well as hunting and snaring.
• Conservation efforts: Recent rescue efforts in locations like India's Dehing Patkai National Park highlight the role of local awareness and community involvement in protecting this and other rare species. 

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