Rain Quail

The rain quail, known scientifically as Coturnix coromandelica, is a small, elusive bird with a modest stature, measuring between 15 to 17 centimeters in length and weighing approximately 64 to 71 grams. The male is distinguished by a striking black breast-patch and a head pattern of contrasting black and white. The female, on the other hand, presents a challenge in differentiation from her counterparts, the female common quail and Japanese quail, though her breast spots are more finely marked.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the rain quail, look for the absence of barring on the primaries. The male's black breast-patch and distinctive head pattern are key identifiers. Females require a more discerning eye, as their delicate breast spots are the main feature that sets them apart from similar species.

Habitat

The rain quail favors grasslands, cropped fields, and scrub areas, particularly within the Indus valley and across the Gangetic plains. It is also found in parts of peninsular India, where it is mostly seen during the winter months.

Distribution

This species has a broad range across the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia, including Pakistan, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

Behaviour

The rain quail is primarily a ground feeder, subsisting on seeds from grasses and other plants, as well as insect larvae and small invertebrates. Breeding occurs from March to October, peaking with the onset of the southwesterly monsoon in June. Nests are simple scrapes in the ground, sometimes sheltered under bushes, where clutches typically consist of six to eight eggs. After an incubation period of 16 to 18 days, the precocial chicks are quick to leave the nest and stay with their parents for about eight months.

Song & Calls

The rain quail's call is a distinctive metallic "quit-quit" note, repeated with regularity in the mornings and evenings, and throughout the night during the breeding season. This call is unmistakably distinct from that of the common grey quail.

Breeding

The breeding season of the rain quail is synchronized with the monsoon, with the majority of breeding activity occurring after the rains begin in June. Their nests are simple ground scrapes, often under the cover of vegetation, and the female lays a clutch of six to eight eggs.

Similar Species

The female rain quail is similar in appearance to the female common quail and Japanese quail but can be distinguished by the more delicate patterning on her breast.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the rain quail consists of seeds, insect larvae, and small invertebrates, which they forage for on the ground.

Conservation Status

The rain quail is classified as "Least Concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), indicating a stable population across its vast range. It is considered a common species within its habitat.