Harlequin Quail
NameHarlequin Quail
Common NameHarlequin Quail
Scientific NameCoturnix delegorguei
FamilyPhasianidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)17.5
Weight (g)71
Plumage DetailsThe male has a distinctive black and white harlequin pattern on the face and throat, with a white supercilium and a broad black band extending from the eye down the side of the neck. The breast and flanks are rich chestnut, while the belly is black. The back and wings are mottled brown with pale streaks. Females are duller, mostly mottled brown with a buff throat and no bold facial pattern.
Vocalization / CallA distinctive, often repeated, 'wit-wit-wit' or 'krr-krr-krr' call, sometimes described as a creaking or whirring sound.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal east to Ethiopia and south to South Africa. Also found in parts of the Arabian Peninsula.
Identifying Featuresbold black and white facial pattern (male), rich chestnut breast (male), small size, ground-dwelling habits, mottled brown back
Description
A small, plump, ground-dwelling quail, the male Harlequin Quail is striking with its bold black and white facial pattern and rich chestnut underparts. It is typically found foraging in grasslands and cultivated fields, often in small coveys.
