Beautiful Birds of Belize Blog – Post #44

By Jim Gain

6/30/2023

• Scientific Name: Dactylortyx thoracicus
• Name in Spanish (Mexico): Codorniz Silbadora
• ABA 4-Letter Bird Code: SIQU
• Family: Odontophoridae – New World Quail
• Order: Galliformes

About this Species

The Singing Quail (Dactylortyx thoracicus) is a small bird species found in Belize and neighboring parts of Mexico and Guatemala. It belongs to the family Odontophoridae, which is known for their distinctive vocalizations. The Singing Quail is so named for its melodic whistle-like song, which is often heard in the early morning and late afternoon.

The Singing Quail is a secretive bird that prefers to remain hidden in the undergrowth of forested areas. It has a distinctive dark gray and reddish-brown plumage, with a white throat and a chestnut breast. Its diet consists mainly of seeds, fruits, and insects. The Singing Quail is monogamous, and both the male and female participate in nest building and incubation of the eggs.

The Singing Quail is considered a Near Threatened species due to habitat loss and hunting pressure. Conservation efforts are underway to protect its remaining habitat and raise awareness about the importance of preserving this unique bird species.

>> Next Post on Sunday, 7/2/2023 – Ringed Kingfisher

Previous posts from Beautiful Birds of Belize Blog

• White Ibis
• Limpkin
• Anhinga
• Scaly-breasted Hummingbird
• Gray-breasted Martin