Chukar Hunting
The Devil Bird of the West
About Chukar Hunting
The chukar partridge is nicknamed the "Devil Bird" for good reason. Native to the Middle East and introduced to North America in the early 1900s, these red-legged partridges thrive in some of the most rugged terrain in the Lower 48 - steep, rocky canyons and rimrock country that punishes hunters.
Chukars run uphill like mountain goats and flush downhill when pushed. The terrain alone - thousands of vertical feet through loose scree and basalt - makes this one of the most physically demanding hunts in North America.
Yet hunters return year after year, drawn by the challenge, the wild country, and the satisfaction of earning every bird the hard way. As the saying goes: "The first time you hunt chukars, you hunt them for the birds. After that, you hunt them to prove something to yourself."
Why Hunt Chukar
Ultimate Physical Challenge
Test yourself against the most demanding upland terrain
Wild, Remote Country
Hunt spectacular canyon country far from crowds
Challenging Shooting
Fast, direction-changing birds when you're winded and off-balance
Excellent Table Fare
Delicious, well-earned meat from grain-fed birds
Species Profile
Chukar Partridge (Alectoris chukar) - Introduced from Pakistan in 1893, with ~795,000 birds released across 41 states from 1931-1970.
- Size: 13-14 inches, 1-1.8 lbs
- Appearance: Light brown back, grey breast, black/white barred flanks, black "necklace" around white throat
- Legs: Distinctive red legs (hence "red-legs")
- Coveys: 10-50 birds, typically 10-20 in autumn/winter
- Population: 7.8 million breeding birds, stable trend
Prime Chukar Country
Chukars established in the Great Basin region where arid, rocky terrain matches their native habitat.
- Nevada: #1 in harvest, prime Great Basin habitat
- Oregon: Eastern canyon country, excellent populations
- Washington: Snake River breaks, Columbia Basin
- Idaho: Snake River canyon, Hells Canyon, Owyhee
- Also found: Utah, California, Arizona, Colorado, Montana, Wyoming
Season Overview
Chukar seasons typically run from early-to-mid October through late January or early February, depending on state. Long seasons reflect stable populations.
Weather significantly affects hunting conditions. Early season offers warmer weather but birds hold tighter. Late season has jumpier birds but cooler temperatures for hiking.
Seasons and limits change annually - always verify current regulations with your state wildlife agency.
State Seasons (Typical)
- Idaho: October 1 - January 31
- Oregon: Second Saturday of October - January 31
- Nevada: Mid-October - Early February
- Washington: October - January (varies by unit)
- California: Mid-October - Late January
Emergency closures may occur during severe winter weather.
Bag Limits
Limits are generally liberal, reflecting healthy populations. Often combined with Hungarian partridge limits.
- Oregon: 8 daily, 24 possession (combined chukar/Hun)
- Nevada: 6 daily (combined chukar/Hun)
- Idaho: 8 daily, 24 possession
Always check current state regulations.
Licensing Requirements
- State Hunting License: Required in all states
- Upland Game Bird Stamp: Required in Oregon ($17), some other states
- Hunter Education: Required for first-time hunters
- Washington: Wing/tail submission required for surveys
Working Steep Terrain
The cardinal rule: Approach from above or at the same elevation. Chukars run uphill but fly downhill - chasing from below only pushes them out of range.
Terrain Strategy
- Approach from Above: Birds flush downhill toward you
- Zig-Zag Upslope: Move diagonally to expected bird locations
- Hunt at Elevation: Once you flush, continue at that contour
- Ridgeline Position: Work dog on ridge, sneak below for flush
- Never Chase Uphill: Birds run to ridge and flush far out of range
Hunting with Dogs
A good pointing dog is essential for consistent chukar success. Wide-ranging dogs that work independently are preferred over tight-working breeds.
Dog Strategy
- Hunt into Wind: Dramatically increases dog's success
- Position Dog Above: Use up-canyon thermals
- Keep Dog Watered: Critical in arid terrain
- Wide Range Needed: Chukars require dogs that cover ground
- Expect Longer Shots: 5-10 yards farther than over grouse dogs
Finding Birds
Understanding chukar habitat and daily patterns helps focus your efforts on productive ground.
Key Locations
- Feeding Areas: Grassier ridgetops, sun-drenched hillsides
- Water Sources: Springs, seeps, puddles - visit daily in summer
- Roosting Cover: Rimrock outcroppings, cliff faces
- Optimal Habitat: 50% sage/grass, 45% talus/rock, 5% brushy draws
- Elevation: 4,000-13,000 feet in arid conditions
Why They're Called Devil Birds
Chukars have earned their reputation through a combination of terrain, behavior, and the physical demands they place on hunters.
- Running Ability: Cover steep terrain with agility, outrunning athletic dogs
- Extreme Terrain: Thrive in the most rugged country in the Lower 48
- Physical Demands: 10-18 miles daily through scree and basalt
- Shooting Challenges: Shooting straight when winded and off-balance
- Wounded Birds: Notorious runners that burrow and disappear
Chukar Behavior
Movement Patterns
- Prefer Running: First escape option, only fly when pressed
- Uphill Run, Downhill Fly: Key to positioning strategy
- Daily Movement: Average ~280 meters, stay in small home range
- Most Active: Early morning and late afternoon
Seasonal Changes
- Early Season: Birds hold tighter, shorter shots (20 yards)
- Late Season: Jumpy, flush at 30-40+ yards in bare cover
- Water Dependent: Stay near water in hot summers
- Winter: Can range farther when green vegetation available
Shotguns for Chukar
Lighter gauges are popular due to the terrain. You'll carry your gun for miles over rough ground - weight matters.
Recommended Setup
- 20 Gauge: Popular choice - light and effective
- 16 Gauge: "May be ideal chukar gun" - light with 12-gauge performance
- 12 Gauge: More shot in pattern for fast, direction-changing birds
- Consider a Sling: Helps on steep climbs
- Semi-auto Popular: Many prefer 20-gauge semi-autos
Shot & Chokes
Shot Sizes
- Early Season: #7½ or #8 for closer shots
- General Purpose: #6 (good range and knock-down)
- Late Season: #6 for longer flushes
- Experienced Choice: 1-1¼ oz of #7½
Choke Selection
- Early Season: Modified or IC/Modified combo
- Late Season: Modified/Full for 30-40 yard shots
- Double Barrel: IC first, Modified second
Boots (CRITICAL)
Boots are the most important piece of chukar gear. Ankle support and lateral stiffness are essential for side-hilling on steep, loose terrain.
Key Features
- Height: 9"+ for ankle support
- Lateral Stiffness: Critical for side-hilling
- Narrow Sole: Better for foot placement on rocks
- Deep Tread: Traction on scree and talus
- Breathability: Important in hot, arid terrain
Recommended Brands
- Kenetrek Mountain Extreme/Guide
- Lowa Z-8
- Schnee's Timberline
- Crispi Wyoming II GTX
Physical Conditioning
Chukar hunting is extremely physically demanding. Proper conditioning prevents injury and allows you to hunt longer.
What to Expect
- Daily Distance: 10-18 miles typical
- Vertical Gain: Thousands of feet
- Terrain: Loose scree, basalt, no trails
Training Tips
- Hike steep inclines with uneven surfaces
- Stair/incline training for legs and cardio
- Cross-training for hiking muscle groups
- Know your limits and hunt within them
Essential Gear
- Water: Carry plenty - arid terrain, long miles
- GPS/Maps: Remote country, easy to get disoriented
- Lightweight Pack: For water, shells, birds, layers
- Trekking Poles: Help on steep terrain
- First Aid: For you and your dog
- Dog Water: Critical for dog performance
Dog Equipment
- GPS Collar: Essential in broken canyon country
- Protective Vest: Sharp rocks and brush
- Collapsible Bowl: For frequent watering
- Paw Protection: Consider boots for rocky terrain
- First Aid: Carry supplies for cuts and paw injuries
Field Care
Chukar are small birds that cool quickly, but hot weather early season requires prompt attention.
Field Care Steps
- Allow birds to cool - don't pile together
- In hot weather, field dress immediately
- Keep in shade, out of pack if warm
- Transport in cooler with ice
Processing
Chukar are easy to process. Most hunters breast them out for the quality meat.
Methods
- Breasting: Quick, yields boneless breast fillets
- Plucking: More work, allows roasting whole
- Legs: Small but worth saving for stock
- Aging: 2-3 days refrigerated improves flavor
Cooking Chukar
Chukar has excellent, mild-flavored meat from their grain and seed diet. Don't overcook!
Popular Methods
- Pan-Seared Breast: Butter, quick sear to medium
- Roasted Whole: Stuff with herbs, bacon-wrapped
- Grilled: Marinated breasts over high heat
- Braised: Whole birds in wine and aromatics
Key: Chukar is lean - add fat and don't overcook.
Storage
- Refrigerator: 2-3 days maximum
- Freezer (wrapped): 6-9 months
- Freezer (vacuum sealed): 12+ months
- Aging: 2-3 days refrigerated improves tenderness
- Thawing: In refrigerator, never at room temperature
Hunting Tips
Stay High
Approach from above - birds fly downhill, giving you better shots
Listen for Calls
Chukars are vocal - their chuck-chuck-chuck reveals location
Glass the Slopes
Use binoculars to spot coveys on distant hillsides before hiking
Work Water Sources
Birds visit water daily - morning and evening ambushes work
Shooting Tips
Catch Your Breath
Take a moment before shooting - being winded ruins accuracy
Expect Downhill Flushes
Birds drop rather than rise - adjust aim accordingly
Pick One Bird
Flock shooting is tempting - focus on single target
Mark Downed Birds
Rocky terrain makes finding birds difficult - mark falls carefully
Safety Reminders
Terrain Safety
- Watch Your Step: Loose rock causes falls and rolled ankles
- Know Your Limits: Don't push beyond your fitness level
- Stay Hydrated: Arid climate dehydrates quickly
- Tell Someone: Let others know your hunting area
- Carry Emergency Gear: Remote country requires preparation
Dog Safety
- Keep Dog Watered: Critical in hot, dry conditions
- Check Paws: Sharp rocks cause cuts and abrasions
- Watch for Heat Stress: Dogs work hard in chukar country
- GPS Collar: Essential in broken canyon terrain
- Know Your Dog's Limits: Rest when needed
Ready to Hunt Chukar?
Find hunting locations near you that offer chukar hunting opportunities.