Coturnix coromandelica
The Rain Quail, *Coturnix coromandelica*, is a diminutive and often elusive gamebird endemic to the Indian subcontinent and parts of Southeast Asia, known for its distinctive call associated with the monsoon season. Measuring typically 15-18 cm (6-7 inches) in length with a weight of 60-90 grams (2.1-3.2 oz), it presents a striking sexual dimorphism. Males are readily identified by their prominent black gorget, a bold black patch on the breast, and intricate facial markings including a white ...
Primarily inhabits open grasslands, cultivated fields (especially rice, wheat, and millet), scrubland, and fallow land, typically found in lowlands and foothills up to 2,000 meters.
Feeds predominantly on small seeds of grasses, weeds, and cultivated crops, supplemented significantly with insects such as beetles, ants, termites, and grasshoppers, especially during the breeding season.
Rain Quails are largely crepuscular and diurnal, though highly secretive, spending most of their time hidden in dense ground cover; they are often only detected by their distinctive calls or when flushed at close range. They forage by scratching at the ground for seeds and insects, employing a st...
The Rain Quail has an extensive geographic distribution primarily across the Indian subcontinent and parts of Southeast Asia. Its breeding range encompasses most of India, particularly the northern and central plains, extending into Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan, and eastwards into Myan...
Least Concern
- The male Rain Quail's striking black throat patch (gorget) is a key identification feature not found in many other quail species. - Its common name, 'Rain Quail,' is believed to derive from its increased calling activity during the monsoon season. - This species is one of the few migratory quai...