The spot-winged wood quail is a species of bird in the family Odontophoridae. It is found in Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay, and formerly in Uruguay. In Portuguese and Spanish the bird is called uru.
Region
Atlantic Forest, southeastern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid evergreen and semi-deciduous forests from southeastern Brazil south into eastern Paraguay and northeastern Argentina (notably Misiones), and it formerly occurred in Uruguay. It favors dense understory, bamboo thickets, and forest edges, often near streams. The species tolerates secondary growth and selectively logged forest but requires substantial cover. Within its range it is patchy, tracking tracts of intact or regenerating forest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The spot-winged wood quail is a shy, ground-dwelling quail of the Atlantic Forest, usually encountered in small coveys that move quietly through dense understory. Its name comes from the pale spots on its wing coverts, which are often visible when it flicks its wings. Locally it is known as 'uru' in Portuguese and Spanish, echoing its resonant whistled calls. Habitat loss and hunting pressure affect many populations, though the species remains fairly widespread.
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with explosive flush; prefers to run
Social Behavior
Usually found in small coveys, often family groups, moving in single file through dense cover. Nests are placed on the ground, hidden in thick vegetation, with both parents likely involved in brood care. Birds roost on or near the ground and rely heavily on concealment when disturbed.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are resonant, whistled phrases often given in duets or choruses at dawn and dusk. Calls carry well through forest, with repeated, rising notes reminiscent of 'uru-uru'. Alarm notes are short, sharp whistles or clucks.
