Stubble Quail
NameStubble Quail
Common NameStubble Quail
Scientific NameCoturnix pectoralis
FamilyPhasianidae
Wingspan (cm)32.5
Length (cm)17.5
Weight (g)95
Plumage DetailsMales have a distinctive rufous-orange face with a prominent white supercilium and a black central stripe on the breast. Their upperparts are mottled and streaked with dark brown, black, and rufous-buff, while underparts are paler with fine barring. Females are generally duller with less distinct facial and breast markings.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a distinctive, rapidly repeated 'whir-whir-whir' or 'chip-chip-chip', often heard at dawn or dusk.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to mainland Australia and Tasmania, also found on some offshore islands. It inhabits grasslands, open woodlands, and agricultural fields.
Identifying Featuresstreaky brown plumage, rufous face (male), black breast stripe (male), small size, ground-dwelling habit, rapid flight when flushed
Description
The Stubble Quail is a small, plump, ground-dwelling bird known for its cryptic plumage, providing excellent camouflage in its grassy habitats. It is typically shy and often only observed when flushed, taking off with a rapid, whirring flight.
