Fynbos Buttonquail

The Fynbos buttonquail, Turnix hottentottus, is a diminutive and elusive bird, a member of the Turnicidae family. It was once considered conspecific with the black-rumped buttonquail, Turnix nanus, but now stands as its own distinct species.

Identification Tips

This species can be identified by its relatively sparse plumage, which is well-adapted to blend into the fynbos vegetation of its habitat.

Habitat

The Fynbos buttonquail is a specialist of the fynbos habitat, a shrubland or heathland vegetation found in the Cape Floristic Region. It thrives in mountain fynbos where the vegetation is relatively sparse.

Distribution

Endemic to South Africa, the Fynbos buttonquail is found along the south coast from Cape Town to Algoa Bay in the Eastern Cape province.

Similar Species

The Fynbos buttonquail was formerly considered conspecific with the black-rumped buttonquail, suggesting that they share similar characteristics.

Conservation Status

The Fynbos buttonquail is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. However, population estimates are uncertain and assumed to be very small, with a precautionary estimate of 250-999 mature individuals and no more than 250 individuals in the largest subpopulation.