Turnix nanus
The Black-rumped Buttonquail (*Turnix nanus*) is a diminutive and secretive ground-dwelling bird, superficially resembling a true quail but belonging to the distinct family Turnicidae, more closely related to shorebirds. Measuring 13-16 cm in length and weighing 30-50g, it features rufous-brown to grey-brown upperparts finely barred and streaked with black, buffy-white underparts, and a distinguishing black rump. Females are notably larger and more brightly colored than males, especially on t...
This species inhabits open grasslands, savannas, and shrublands, preferring areas with dense grass cover for concealment, typically found from sea level up to 2,000 meters.
Their diet consists mainly of seeds from various grasses and weeds, supplemented with a significant intake of insects such as ants, termites, beetles, and grasshoppers, all gleaned from the ground.
Black-rumped Buttonquails are highly secretive and primarily diurnal, spending most of their time foraging on the ground, often running rather than flying when disturbed. Females are the more dominant sex, establishing and defending territories through distinctive booming calls to attract males. ...
The Black-rumped Buttonquail (*Turnix nanus*) is a resident species widely distributed across sub-Saharan Africa, though its presence is often localized and discontinuous due to specific habitat requirements. Its breeding range extends from Senegal in West Africa eastward through Central Africa t...
Least Concern
- The female Black-rumped Buttonquail is larger and more vibrantly colored than the male, a rare instance of reversed sexual dimorphism in birds. - In a remarkable role reversal, the female actively courts multiple males, then leaves each male to incubate the eggs and raise the young entirely on ...