There are two subspecies of this species. The most commonly one seen in captivity is the Chinese (B. t. thoracica), which is native to China and has been to introduced into southern Japan and on Maui in the Hawaiian Islands. The other subspecies, (B. t. sonorivox), is found only on Taiwan.
The sexes of this species are similar, with the female being slightly smaller. They have a bright rufous throat and face; gray above the eye and extending to the base of the neck. The breast and back is mottled with black, buff and chestnut. The Chinese subspecies is much lighter than the subspecies from Taiwan.
Breeding
The breeding season begins in the late spring, when the hen lays her clutch of 7 to 9 eggs. You will probably have to incubate in an incubator or under very small foster hens. The incubation lasts about 18 days.
The chicks are tricky to raise. In the wild, the hen will offer food to the little chicks from her beak, so in captivity, they have a hard time to learn to eat on their own. You will have to encourage them to start eating with the help of a teacher, usually a similar sized chick, or you can use mealworms and offer them with your fingers. Watch the birds carefully and make sure they are getting enough.
General Comments
The Chinese Bamboo Partridge is smaller and more delicate than most other partridge species kept in captivity. They are tropical and need protection from freezing weather. Although attractive and well established, this species is not recommended for the beginner.