The rufous-fronted wood quail is a species of bird in the family Odontophoridae, the New World quail. It is found in Colombia and Ecuador.
Region
Chocó biogeographic region and Western Andes (Colombia and northwestern Ecuador)
Typical Environment
Occurs on the western slopes of the Andes and adjacent low foothills from southwestern Colombia into northwestern Ecuador. Prefers humid primary forest and mature secondary forest with dense understory, often near streams and in areas with bamboo and Heliconia. It avoids open habitats and typically remains under heavy cover. Local presence is patchy where forests have been fragmented, but it can persist in well-structured secondary growth.
Altitude Range
300–1700 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A shy, ground-dwelling New World quail of humid Andean foothill forests, most often detected by its duet-like whistled calls at dawn and dusk. It travels in tight coveys that skulk through dense understory and bamboo thickets. By consuming fallen fruits and small invertebrates, it likely aids seed dispersal and helps control leaf-litter insects. Local populations are affected by forest loss and hunting pressure.
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, explosive flushes
Social Behavior
Usually found in small coveys that keep close to dense ground cover while foraging. Pairs may duet, and covey members maintain contact with soft calls. Nests are on the ground, a concealed leaf-lined scrape under vegetation.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Duet-like, clear whistled phrases, often beginning with a mellow, rising note followed by rhythmic repetitions. Most vocal at first light and late afternoon, carrying well through humid forest.
Plumage
Stocky, earth-toned quail with finely barred and mottled brown body plumage and a distinctive rich rufous forecrown and face. Underparts show subtle black-and-buff scalloping; upperparts are dark brown with fine vermiculations.
Diet
Forages on the forest floor for fallen seeds and fruits, supplementing with insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates. Scratches through leaf litter and probes soft soil. Occasionally takes tender shoots and small plant matter.
Preferred Environment
Dense understory of humid foothill and montane forests, including bamboo thickets and along shaded trails and stream edges. Typically feeds under heavy cover and avoids open ground.
