Common Quail

Overview

Common Quail (Coturnix coturnix) is a species of Pheasants & Allies (Phasianidae) in the order Gamebirds (Chickens, Pheasants and Grouse). A tiny migratory game bird with streaked brown plumage; lives hidden in grassy fields, flies only when flushed; the ancestor of domesticated Japanese quail; breeds quickly and is farmed for eggs and meat.

Scientific Classification

Genus: Coturnix; binomial: Coturnix coturnix; authority: (Linnaeus, 1758). Typical size: 17-18cm. Average lifespan: 3-5 years.

Distribution

Breeding range: Africa, the Indian Ocean and the Palearctic. Non-breeding range: AF, India.

Conservation Status

This taxon is listed as Extant (living) in the IOC World Bird List.

Remarks

No additional remarks recorded.