Rock Bush Quail

The Rock Bush Quail, known scientifically as Perdicula argoondah, is a diminutive and elusive bird, adorned in various shades of brown, barred and mottled with a darker hue. This species measures between 6.7 to 7.25 inches in length and tips the scales at a modest 2.25 to 3 ounces.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the Rock Bush Quail, look for the unique feature where the outermost primary feather surpasses the length of the innermost. Additionally, the inner web of the primaries is decorated with bars or speckles of buff, providing a helpful diagnostic characteristic.

Habitat

The Rock Bush Quail is a denizen of arid regions, favoring scrubby grasslands and areas punctuated with thorny bushes. It is typically found at elevations not exceeding 600 meters.

Distribution

This quail is a resident of the western half of India. It is a non-migratory bird, steadfast in its chosen locales throughout the year.

Behaviour

These quails are social, often found in small coveys. They are masters of concealment, frequently remaining undetected until they burst forth in a sudden, collective flight from beneath the vegetation.

Song & Calls

The vocal repertoire of the Rock Bush Quail includes a trill that precedes a series of piping notes. These notes commence quietly and crescendo in volume, creating a distinctive auditory signal.

Conservation status

The Rock Bush Quail is fortunate to have a broad range and is quite common within it. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified it as "Least Concern." Despite not having a quantified population, it is suspected that their numbers are in a gradual decline due to hunting pressures and habitat destruction. However, this decline is not rapid enough to classify the species as threatened.