The starred wood quail is a species of bird in the family Odontophoridae. It is found in subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests of Bolivia, Brazil, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Western Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid lowland and foothill forests of Bolivia, Brazil (western Amazonia), Ecuador, and Peru. Favors dense understory in terra firme and transitional forest, often near streams, treefall gaps, and forest edges. It will also use secondary growth and bamboo thickets where cover is adequate. Typically keeps to the shaded forest floor and avoids open areas. Local occurrence can be patchy where hunting pressure is high.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The starred wood quail is a shy, ground-dwelling bird of western Amazonian forests, more often heard than seen. Its name refers to the fine pale speckles that give a 'starred' look to the plumage. It moves in small coveys and gives far-carrying, whistled duets at dawn and dusk. Forest loss and hunting pressure can locally affect populations, even where the species remains widespread.
Temperament
secretive and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; explosive flush; prefers to run
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small coveys that keep close contact while foraging on the forest floor. Nests are placed on the ground, concealed by vegetation. Breeding likely coincides with rainy periods; both adults tend young, which are precocial and follow adults soon after hatching.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives clear, whistled notes in duets or choruses, often at dawn and dusk, carrying far through dense forest. Contact calls are soft clucks and whistles used to keep coveys together.
Plumage
Dark brown to blackish-brown overall with fine buff to whitish speckling that creates a 'starred' effect on the head, neck, and upperparts; underparts often show lighter mottling. Feathers are dense and soft, suited to moving quietly through understory. Subtle rufous tones may occur on the crown and flanks.
Diet
Forages by walking and scratching through leaf litter for fallen seeds, small fruits, and tender plant material. Takes a variety of invertebrates, including insects and small arthropods, especially during the wet season. Opportunistically consumes berries and soft mast when available. Pebbles or grit may be ingested to aid digestion.
Preferred Environment
Feeds on the shaded forest floor under dense understory, along trails, stream margins, and bamboo or vine tangles. Avoids open ground, remaining close to cover for rapid concealment.
