Dark-backed Wood-Quail
NameDark-backed Wood-Quail
Common NameDark-backed Wood-Quail
Scientific NameOdontophorus melanonotus
FamilyOdontophoridae
Wingspan (cm)40
Length (cm)26
Weight (g)300
Plumage DetailsThe Dark-backed Wood-Quail has a dark brown to blackish head, nape, back, and wings, often with a slight olive or reddish tinge. Its throat is also dark. In stark contrast, the breast, flanks, and belly are a vibrant rufous-orange, sometimes with some dark mottling on the lower flanks. A short, dark crest is present on its head.
Vocalization / CallKnown for loud, ringing, often duetting calls, typically a series of 'ko-KWAH-ko-KWAH' or 'ko-KWAH-ko-KWAH-ko-KWAH' notes, frequently given in chorus by a group.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeEndemic to the humid montane forests of the western Andes in southwestern Colombia (Nariño department) and northwestern Ecuador (various provinces including Esmeraldas, Carchi, Imbabura, and Pichincha).
Identifying FeaturesDark brown to blackish upperparts and head, Vibrant rufous-orange breast and belly, Short, dark crest, Ground-dwelling behavior, Loud duetting calls
Description
This stocky, ground-dwelling quail is characterized by its striking plumage contrast. It inhabits humid montane forests, where it forages for food on the forest floor, often in small coveys. Despite its shy nature, its loud, distinctive calls are a common sound in its habitat.
