The dark-backed wood quail is a bird species in the family Odontophoridae, which is the New World quail. It is found in Colombia and Ecuador.
Region
Northwest South America (Chocó and Western Andes of Colombia and Ecuador)
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid foothill and lower montane forests on the west slope of the Andes in southwestern Colombia and northwestern Ecuador. It favors primary forest but also uses mature secondary growth and dense understory along streams and ravines. The species stays near the forest floor, relying on thick cover and leaf-litter. Habitat fragmentation limits movements between forest patches, restricting coveys to isolated remnants.
Altitude Range
300–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This elusive quail lives in dense, humid foothill forests and is far more often heard than seen. Family groups (coveys) respond to soft whistled imitations and may chorus at dawn and dusk. It is threatened by ongoing deforestation and fragmentation in the Chocó and western Andean slopes. As a ground forager, it helps cycle nutrients and may aid seed dispersal by consuming fallen fruits.
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with explosive flush, usually followed by running through cover
Social Behavior
Lives in small family coveys that keep close contact with soft calls while foraging on the forest floor. Nests on or near the ground in concealed sites; both sexes likely share parental duties. Pairs and coveys maintain small home ranges and avoid open areas.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives loud, far-carrying whistled phrases often delivered as antiphonal duets within a covey. Vocal activity peaks at dawn and dusk, with clear, ringing notes that travel through dense forest.
Plumage
Sooty to dark brown-black upperparts with a contrasting richer rufous to chestnut underside; flanks often show fine barring. Short, rounded wings and a short tail suited to quick dashes through dense cover. Overall appearance is dusky above with warmer tones below.
Diet
Consumes seeds, fallen fruits, tender shoots, insects, and other small invertebrates. Scratches through leaf-litter to uncover arthropods and plant material. Opportunistically takes berries and soft fruits during seasonal abundance.
Preferred Environment
Forages on the shaded forest floor, especially in dense understory, along trails, and near stream edges. Uses tangles, buttress roots, and thickets for cover while feeding and when alarmed.
