Yellow-Legged Buttonquail

About Yellow-Legged Buttonquail:

• It is a small bird species that belongs to the family Turnicidae. 
• Scientific Name: Turnix tanki
• Distribution:
  • This species is native to a variety of habitats across the Indian subcontinent, EastAsia, and Southeast Asia, adapting well to the local environments.
  • It has two subspecies: T. t. tanki in Pakistan, India, Nepal, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands; and T. t. blanfordii in Myanmar, Indochina, and eastern China. 
  • It also migrates to the Korean peninsula and parts of southeast Russia.
• Features:
  • It measures approximately 16 to 18 centimeters in length and weighs around 50 to 60 grams. The female birds are larger than the males.
  • This species has a plump and rounded shape, giving it a somewhat compact and stocky appearance.
  • Its body is covered in a combination of vibrant colors, including shades of brown, gray, and black, which aid in its camouflage within its natural habitat. 
  • The feathers on its upper body are predominantly brown with intricate patterns, while the underparts are lighter in color, often displaying a mix of gray and white tones.
  • One of the most striking features is its vibrant yellow legs, which give the species its name. 
  • A ground-dwelling bird, it typically opts to run rather than fly when faced with danger.
• Conservation Status:
• IUCN Red List: Least Concern

Q1: What is IUCN?

The International Union for Conservation of Nature is a global organization composed of governments, NGOs, scientists, and experts dedicated to conserving nature and promoting sustainability. Its primary role involves assessing the conservation status of species, providing data and analysis on the state of biodiversity worldwide, and offering guidance and frameworks for conservation efforts.

Source: Yellow legged Buttonquail bird sighted in urban area in Ahmedabad