The goal of the present study was to produce the first genome of a game bird of relevant socioeconomic importance in western Europe, the red-legged partridge (Alectoris rufa). Incidentally, this is also the first genome of the genus Alectoris, which consists of seven Palaearctic species and represents an ideal model to address micro and macroevolutionary questions. Aside from its implications for management and conservation, this genome also promises key insights into the physiology of these birds with a view to improving poultry husbandry practices.