Snow Mountain Quail

The Snow Mountain quail, known scientifically as Synoicus monorthonyx, is a dark brown avian denizen of the alpine grasslands, measuring approximately 28 centimeters in length. Its plumage is heavily marked with brown, complemented by a pale yellow bill, yellow legs, and a brown iris. The female is distinguishable by her whitish underparts, which are more distinctly barred with black compared to the male.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the Snow Mountain quail, look for its dark brown plumage with heavy markings. The pale yellow bill and legs are key features, along with the brown iris. The female's underparts are a useful distinguishing characteristic, being whitish with more pronounced black barring.

Habitat

This species is found in the highest elevations of Western New Guinea, specifically within the Snow and Star Mountains. It thrives in alpine grasslands at altitudes ranging from 3,000 to 4,200 meters.

Distribution

The Snow Mountain quail is confined to the Snow and Star Mountains of Western New Guinea, where it resides in a mostly inaccessible and remote habitat.

Behaviour

Information on the behaviour of the Snow Mountain quail is scarce due to its remote habitat. However, it is known to nest in hollows under grass tussocks.

Breeding

The female Snow Mountain quail typically lays up to three pale brown, dark-spotted eggs. These eggs are deposited in a hollow nest situated under the edge of a grass tussock.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Snow Mountain quail mainly consists of seeds, flowers, leaves, and other vegetable matter, which it forages from its alpine grassland environment.

Conservation status

The Snow Mountain quail is currently evaluated as "Near Threatened" on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This status is due to its limited range and the increasing accessibility of parts of its habitat.