Black-breasted Buttonquail
NameBlack-breasted Buttonquail
Common NameBlack-breasted Buttonquail
Scientific NameTurnix melanogaster
FamilyTurnicidae
Wingspan (cm)31.5
Length (cm)18
Weight (g)77.5
Plumage DetailsThe female (pictured) has a striking black head and breast, heavily spotted with white. Her back and wings are rufous-brown with black barring and white spots, and she has a pale belly. Males are duller with less extensive black. Both sexes have dark bills and legs.
Vocalization / CallThe female's call is a deep, booming 'oom-oom-oom' or 'coo-coo-coo', often repeated. They also produce softer clucking or purring sounds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeEndemic to a restricted area in southeastern Queensland, Australia, primarily found in coastal lowland rainforests and vine thickets.
Identifying FeaturesBlack head and breast with white spots (especially female), Rufous-brown back with dark barring and white spots, Small, quail-like appearance, Ground-dwelling and secretive behavior, Distinctive booming call of the female
Description
This small, secretive ground-dwelling bird is known for its distinctive plumage, particularly the female's black breast with prominent white spotting. It forages in the leaf litter of dense forest undergrowth, often heard before it is seen.
