The Snow Mountain quail, is a roughly 28-cm-long (11 in), dark brown quail of alpine grasslands. It was formerly considered the only member of the genus Anurophasis, but phylogenetic analysis places it as the sister species to the brown quail in the genus Synoicus. It has heavily marked brown plumage, a pale yellow bill, yellow legs and a brown iris. The underparts of the female are whitish and more distinctly barred black than in the male.
Region
New Guinea Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs in alpine and subalpine grasslands, dwarf shrub heaths, and boggy meadows above the treeline in the central ranges of western New Guinea. Prefers dense tussock grass where it can remain concealed and quickly dive for cover. Often found near snowmelt areas and seepage zones with lush herb growth. It uses natural rock outcrops and shrub patches for shelter and nesting.
Altitude Range
3000–4500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Snow Mountain quail is a high-altitude specialist of the New Guinea central ranges, living above the treeline in alpine tussock grasslands. Once placed in its own genus Anurophasis, genetic studies show it is sister to the brown quail within Synoicus. It is notoriously cryptic, usually detected by its calls or when flushed at close range. Females are paler and more distinctly barred below than males.
Temperament
secretive and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with explosive flush, then drops quickly back into cover
Social Behavior
Typically encountered in pairs or small family groups, especially outside the breeding season. Nests are simple scrapes hidden at the base of tussocks or shrubs. Likely monogamous with both sexes staying close to cover and relying on camouflage. When threatened, it prefers to run and only flies when pressed.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include soft contact calls and a series of clear piping whistles, often given at dawn and dusk. Alarm calls are sharper and more clipped when flushed at close range.
