Coturnix delegorguei
The Harlequin Quail, *Coturnix delegorguei*, is a small, plump gamebird found across Sub-Saharan Africa, notable for its striking sexual dimorphism. Males are easily identified by their distinctive black, white, and chestnut 'harlequin' facial pattern, black throat, and mottled brown upperparts, typically measuring 16-19 cm in length and weighing 49-65g. Females are more cryptically patterned, with mottled brown plumage and pale streaking, lacking the bold facial markings, and are slightly la...
Found in open grasslands, savannas, acacia scrub, fallow fields, and cultivated lands, often near water sources. Occurs from sea level up to approximately 2000 meters elevation.
Mainly consists of seeds from grasses and weeds, supplemented by a variety of small insects (such as termites, beetles, and caterpillars) and other invertebrates. Forages primarily on the ground.
Harlequin Quails are primarily diurnal but often most active during dawn and dusk, remaining secretive and hidden in dense vegetation for much of the day. They roost on the ground, often in small, concealed depressions. Foraging involves scratching and pecking at the ground to glean seeds and ins...
The Harlequin Quail is widely distributed across Sub-Saharan Africa. Its breeding range extends from Senegal and Gambia in the west, eastward through the Sahel region to Sudan, Ethiopia, and Somalia, and then southward through East Africa (including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda) to southern Africa (An...
Least Concern
- Its movements are often described as 'nomadic,' following rainfall patterns across its African range, rather than strict seasonal migrations. - The male's striking black, white, and chestnut facial pattern gives the species its 'harlequin' name, reminiscent of a theatrical costume. - They are o...