Everything You Need to Know About the Rain Quail: Habitat, Diet and Breeding

The Rain Quail, also know as the Black-breasted Qual is a small bird species found in South Asia, particularly in India and Southeast Asia.

The Rain Quail is a small, plump bird with a blackish-brown body, white streaks on its sides, and a distinctive black “U” shaped patch on its throat in males. Females tend to be more brown and lack the black throat patch. Both sexes have reddish-brown eyes and a dark beak. Their legs are yellowish to pale brown.

Rain Quails prefer grasslands, agricultural fields, and scrubby areas. They are commonly found in areas with tall grasses and near water sources. They are known for their secretive nature and are more often heard than seen. Their call, which sounds like a rapid “kirr-kirr-kirr” is commonly heard during the breeding season.

Naturally, Rain Quails are most active during the early morning and late afternoon. However, they can also be active during the day, especially in cooler weather. Although they are capable of rapid, short flights, Rain Quails usually prefer to run or hide when threatened.

Their diet consists mainly of seeds and grains, such as millet, wheat, and rice. They also consume a variety of small invertebrates, including insects, worms, and larvae, which provide them with essential protein, especially during the breeding season.

Rain Quail’s breeding season usually coincides with the onset of the monsoon rains, usually from June to September. The name “Rain Quail” is derived from this association with the rainy season.

Usually, they nest on the ground, creating a simple scrape in the earth lined with grass and leaves. The nest is often well-hidden in tall grasses. Female Rain Quails lay 4-8 eggs, and both parents take part in incubating the eggs, although the female does most of the incubation.

In some regions, Rain Quails are hunted for sport and food. They are considered game birds in countries like India and Pakistan.

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