ABSTRACT 
This report summarizes the taxonomy and distribution of rep- 
resentatives of the genus Francolinus native to southern Asia and 
their introduction into other regions. Of these the northern black 
francolin (Francolinus francolinus asiae) and the northern gray 
francolin (Francolinus pondicerianus is interpositus) are singled out 
for detailed consideration since trial releases of these two sub- 
species are currently underway in southern and southwestern United 
States. Topics covered include descriptions, habitat, climatic 
requirements, food and water, general habits, effect of predation, 
reproductive capacity, and diseases and parasites, An analysis of 
competing interests, including man and game, breeding, rearing and 
trapping are also considered. 
