Spotted Quailthrush
NameSpotted Quailthrush
Common NameSpotted Quailthrush
Scientific NameCinclosoma punctatum
FamilyCinclosomatidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)26.5
Weight (g)72.5
Plumage DetailsMales have a grey head and breast, a prominent white throat bordered by a black band, and a white supercilium. The back and wings are rufous-brown with distinctive black and white spotting on the wing coverts. The flanks and undertail coverts are heavily barred with black and white or buff. Females are generally duller, with a buffy throat and less defined facial markings.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a clear, piping whistle, often repeated, and a series of soft, mournful notes. It also emits a sharp alarm call when disturbed.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to southeastern Australia, ranging from southeastern Queensland through New South Wales, Victoria, and into southeastern South Australia. It inhabits dry sclerophyll forests, woodlands, and mallee scrub with dense undergrowth.
Identifying FeaturesGrey head and breast (male), White throat with black border (male), Prominent white supercilium, Heavily spotted flanks and wing coverts, Ground-dwelling behavior, Long tail
Description
The Spotted Quailthrush is a medium-sized, ground-dwelling bird endemic to southeastern Australia, known for its striking and cryptic plumage. It is typically shy, foraging on the forest floor for invertebrates, and often detected by its distinctive calls rather than sight.
