FRANCOLIN

a genus of birds belonging to the same family as the partridge, which they resemble in many respects, though they usually have one or more strong and sharp horny spurs on the tarsi. The only European member of the genus is the Francolin us vulgar is, which is characterized by a red band round the neck, and red feet. It is found in the south of France, Sicily, Cyprus, and the southern part of Hurope generally. It also ranges east to North India, where it is known as the ‘black partridge.’ The other species belong to Africa, Asia, and Ocean i a. The ‘redwing’ (Ff. leva ill anti) of Cape Province is familiar to sportsmen.