Checklist and distribution of Galliform Birds (Order: Galliformes) in Iraq

Abstract

A total of four genera and four species belong to one family, Phasianidae, Order Galliformes; about 72 specimens deposited in the bird's collection in the Iraq "Natural History Research Center and Museum INHM" were reviewed. In the current study, morphometrics of four species of taxidermy Galliform birds: Chukor Alectoris graeca (Meisner, 1804), Seesee Ammoperdix griseogularis (Brandt, 1843), Quail Coturnix coturnix (Linnaeus, 1758), and Black Partridge Francolinus francolinus (Linnaeus, 1766) were documented. In addition, the distribution ranges throughout Iraq and the Global Conservation Status of each mentioned species were reviewed and comprehensively discussed. The current study concluded that the collection of four species belongs to the Phasinidae Family of Galliformes Order, which deserved in INHM still abundance in the Iraqi environment; that Chukers Alectoris sp. more abundance in mountains and hills areas west and north of Iraq; While, Black partridge Francolinnus francolinus is more abundance in wetlands and Marshes south of Iraq. Global Conservation status listed them as Least Concern (LC). Keywords: Black partridge, Chukar, Galliform birds, Phasianidae, Quail.