Plains-wanderer

The plains-wanderer (Pedionomus torquatus) is a unique ground-dwelling bird endemic to Australia, particularly concentrated in the Riverina region of New South Wales. As the sole member of its family, Pedionomidae, it stands apart with its quail-like appearance, measuring 15–19 cm in length. The male has light brown plumage with fawn-white underparts marked with black crescents, while the larger female features a striking white-spotted black collar. Renowned for their camouflage abilities, plains-wanderers prefer to hide or run instead of fly when disturbed. Interestingly, they demonstrate reversed sexual dimorphism with females larger and more colorful than males. Males also take on the role of incubating the four eggs laid by the female. Once thought to be related to buttonquails or grouped with cranes and rails, genetic studies reveal closer ties to waders, such as jacanas. Conservation efforts are critical as the species faces threats from habitat loss due to agriculture and predation by introduced foxes. Currently categorized as Endangered by the IUCN and listed as critically endangered in various Australian states, a captive breeding program at Taronga Western Plains Zoo aims to bolster the dwindling population.