Brown Quail
NameBrown Quail
Common NameBrown Quail
Scientific NameCoturnix ypsilophora
FamilyPhasianidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)18.5
Weight (g)105
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly mottled brown and rufous, with fine, dark, wavy barring on the underparts and flanks, providing superb camouflage. Females are generally paler and more uniformly patterned than males, which can exhibit more distinct facial markings and darker underparts. The head is often plain brown with a pale supercilium.
Vocalization / CallTheir vocalizations include a distinctive, rapidly repeated 'kree-kree-kree' or 'chi-chi-chi' call, often given at dawn or dusk, and various soft clucking or chirping sounds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland, forest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across Australia, New Guinea, Indonesia, and the Philippines, inhabiting a variety of open and vegetated landscapes.
Identifying FeaturesSmall, plump body, Cryptic brown plumage with fine barring, Short tail, Ground-dwelling behavior, Distinctive 'kree-kree-kree' call
Description
The Brown Quail is a small, plump, ground-dwelling bird known for its cryptic brown plumage, which provides excellent camouflage. They are typically shy, preferring to run through dense vegetation rather than fly when disturbed, and are often found foraging in grassy or reedy areas.
