These birds are unrelated to the subtropical species that have been named after the partridge due to similar size and morphology.

[1][2] The genus name is Latin for "partridge", which is itself derived from Ancient Greek ‘πέρδιξ’ (pérdīx).

[citation needed] These are medium-sized partridges with dull-coloured bills and legs, streaked brown upperparts, and rufous tails with barring on the flanks.

One member of the genus, the grey partridge, has been introduced to the United States and Canada for the purpose of hunting.

He was killed when thrown headlong down from the sacred hill of Athena, so, mindful of his fall, the bird does not build its nest in the trees, nor take lofty flights and avoids high places.