Distribution Map
Little Buttonquail
Turnix velox
EndemicStatus
Fairly CommonRarity
Bird Gallery
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Species Description
The Little Buttonquail *(Turnix velox)* is Australia's smallest buttonquail. This dainty ground-dwelling bird roams the grasslands and woodlands of inland Australia, where its reddish-brown plumage helps it blend into its habitat. Despite its name, it's not related to true quails but belongs to a unique family of birds.
Fun Facts
They're sometimes called "Butterfly Quails" because of their erratic, fluttering flight pattern when flushed from cover.
1. Females are brighter coloured than males, becoming duller outside the breeding season.
2. In flight, the white flanks and contrasting wing pattern.
3. Listen for its low, booming "oo-ah" or "coo-oo" call, often heard at night.
Little Buttonquails inhabit grasslands and open woodlands across inland Australia, occurring in all mainland states but rarely near coastal areas in the east. Look for them on the ground in dry grasslands, stubble fields, or grassy woodland edges, especially after seasonal rains when food is abundant. Dawn and dusk are prime viewing times. These shy birds prefer to run rather than fly when disturbed. A helpful tip: watch for small movements in the grass and scan areas with short, sparse vegetation where they're easier to spot.
Physical Attributes
Height
14 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds16%
Top Locations
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