This report summarizes the taxonomy and distribution of representatives of the genus Francolinus native to southern Asia and their introduction into other regions. Of these the northern black francolin (Francolinus francolinus asiae) and the northern gray francolin (Francolinus pondicerianus interpositus) are singled out for detailed consideration since trial releases of these two subspecies are currently underway in southern and southwestern United States. Topics covered include descriptions, habitat, climatic requirements, food and water, general habits, effect of predation, reproductive capacity, and diseases and parasites. An analysis of competing interests, including man and game, breeding, rearing and trappings are also considered.

This guide brings together, for the first time in single volume, a comprehensive review of all the world's pheasants, partridges, quails, grouse, turkeys, guineafowl, buttonquails, sandgrouse, and the enigmatic Plains-wanderer - over 250 species in all. The group includes some of the world's most familiar and beautiful birds, such as Indian Peafowl and the stunning tragopans, as well as some of the rarest and most threatened. Some survive in fragments of over-exploited habitats, whilst others are now so familiar in domestication that it is difficult to imagine that they had any wild ancestors at all. As with other volumes in the award-winning Helm Identification Guide series, this book concentrates on identification and distribution, but also highlights conversation issues where relevant. Each species is treated in detail, reflecting the extensive knowledge of both authors. The 72 colour plates, by leading bird illustrators, show male, female, juvenile and subspecies plumages, and form the finest set of illustrations of these birds to date. There is also a colour distribution map for each species. Pheasants, Partridges & Grouse is a welcome addition to the Helm Identification Guide series, more importantly, a landmark volume in the literature of this attractive and vulnerable group of birds.