Red-backed Buttonquail
NameRed-backed Buttonquail
Common NameRed-backed Buttonquail
Scientific NameTurnix maculosus
FamilyTurnicidae
Wingspan (cm)25
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)36
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are mottled dark brown and rufous, heavily streaked with black and buff. The crown and nape are streaked, and the underparts are buff, with black barring on the flanks. Females display a more prominent rufous-chestnut patch on the back, while the bill is yellowish and legs are greyish.
Vocalization / CallThe female's call is a deep, booming 'oom-oom-oom' or 'coo-coo-coo', often repeated. They also produce various grunts and chirps.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across northern and eastern Australia, New Guinea, and various islands in Indonesia and the Philippines.
Identifying FeaturesSmall, quail-like appearance, Mottled brown and rufous plumage, Streaked head and back, Yellowish bill, Ground-dwelling behavior, Rufous patch on female's back
Description
The Red-backed Buttonquail is a small, ground-dwelling bird with cryptic plumage, often found in dense vegetation. Females are typically larger and more brightly colored than males, particularly exhibiting a rufous patch on the back during breeding season. They are known for their secretive nature and rapid movements through undergrowth.
