Brown Quail

The brown quail, known to science as Synoicus ypsilophorus, is a diminutive and robust bird, part of the true quail family Phasianidae. This species, also referred to as the swamp quail, silver quail, and Tasmanian quail, exhibits a variable plumage across its range. The males are adorned with a reddish-brown plumage speckled with black on the head and upper neck, while their backs and wings share a similar reddish-brown hue. The underparts are a tapestry of buff, rufous, or brown, all finely barred with black chevrons. Females are of a paler complexion, with small black spots on the shoulders and dark chevron-shaped markings on the upperparts.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the brown quail, look for a plump, stocky bird with a length ranging from 17 to 22 centimeters and a weight between 75 to 140 grams. The male's reddish-brown back and wings, along with the finely barred underparts, are distinctive. The female mirrors the male in pattern but is generally lighter in coloration. Both sexes have a short, dark brown tail with yellowish barring.

Habitat

The brown quail thrives in a variety of habitats, including agricultural areas, wet grasslands, shrublands, spinifex savannah, and freshwater wetlands. It is predominantly a lowland species but can be found at elevations up to 3,700 meters in New Guinea.

Distribution

This species is native to mainland Australia, Tasmania, and Papua New Guinea and has been successfully introduced to New Zealand and Fiji. In Australia, it is widespread except in arid regions, while in New Zealand, it can be found up to 1,000 meters in elevation.

Behaviour

The brown quail is a ground-dwelling bird that prefers concealment and swift running to flight. It is often found in small groups, and when startled, the birds scatter in various directions, only to regroup once the perceived threat has passed.

Song & Calls

The brown quail communicates with a repertoire of shrill calls, including a distinctive double whistle with the latter note ascending, which it uses to maintain contact within dense vegetation.

Breeding

During the spring, brown quails pair up for breeding. They have an extended breeding season, with the female laying clutches of eggs in a shallow, grass-lined nest on the ground. The female incubates the eggs for about three weeks, and the precocial chicks are tended by both parents initially, with the male assuming care after two weeks.

Similar Species

While the brown quail may be confused with other quail species, its reddish-brown plumage with fine black barring and the distinctive calls can help differentiate it from its relatives.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the brown quail consists of grasses, seeds, shoots, and small invertebrates, which they forage for on the ground.

Conservation status

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified the brown quail as "Least Concern," indicating a stable and widespread population across its range.

In Aboriginal language and culture

The Kunwinjku people of western Arnhem Land have bestowed upon the brown quail the names djirndih, djiribbidj, and merhmerh, encompassing all quails within their vernacular.