Odontophorus guttatus
The Spotted Wood Quail (Odontophorus guttatus) is a captivating, medium-sized gamebird, notable for its striking plumage and secretive forest dwelling habits. Measuring approximately 23-28 cm (9-11 inches) in length and weighing between 250-350 grams (8.8-12.3 oz), this robust quail sports a distinctive reddish-brown crown and nape, often with a darker facial mask contrasting with a rufous throat patch. Its back and wings are mottled olive-brown, while the underparts are dark brown to black, ...
This species primarily inhabits humid evergreen and semi-deciduous forests, including montane cloud forests and lowland rainforests. It typically occurs at elevations ranging from near sea level up to 3,000 meters (9,800 feet).
Their diet consists mainly of insects, particularly ants, termites, and beetles, along with a variety of seeds, berries, and fallen fruits. They primarily forage by scratching through leaf litter on the forest floor.
Spotted Wood Quails are predominantly terrestrial, spending most of their time foraging on the forest floor in small coveys of 4-10 individuals, occasionally up to 15. They are typically diurnal but can be quite secretive, often heard more than seen, especially at dawn and dusk when their distinc...
The Spotted Wood Quail is widely distributed throughout Central America and northern South America. Its breeding range extends from southern Mexico (primarily Veracruz, Oaxaca, Chiapas) south through Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama. From Panama, its ran...
Least Concern
- The Spotted Wood Quail's scientific name, 'Odontophorus guttatus,' literally means 'toothed bearer with spots,' referring to the small tooth-like projection on its bill and its prominent spotted plumage. - Despite their robust appearance, they are extremely difficult to observe, relying on dens...