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Species description
The Chinese painted quail (Synoicus chinensis) is a miniature bird in the tribe Coturnicini of the pheasant family. At 45–70 g and about 14 cm long, it is among the smallest galliforms. The species shows clear sexual dimorphism: in males of the nominate form S. c. chinensis, the crown and nape are reddish-brown with a black edging; the sides of the head and neck are grey. A white stripe runs from the base of the bill to the eye, beneath it a black stripe merges into a broad black “chin-throat” patch framing a contrasting white “beard.” Females are sandy above and light rufous below with fine black barring; the throat is white and the breast is pale rufous. Both sexes have a black bill, orange-yellow legs and carmine-red irises. In captivity you may see both wild-type plumage (often with some intergrade among subspecies) and selected color morphs such as white, silver, brown, and pinkish variants.
Range and subspecies
The range spans the Indian subcontinent, Myanmar, Thailand, China and Taiwan, the Philippines, Borneo, Java, Lombok, Flores, Timor, Sumatra, New Guinea and Australia, as well as the Nicobar Islands. It inhabits dense, humid grasslands on plains and foothills, creating “tunnels” through the sward. In Africa it occurs locally, in places up to 1,800 m. Breeding seasons track rainfall and shift between regions.
- S. c. chinensis — India and Sri Lanka to Malaysia, Sumatra, Java, Indochina, China, Taiwan;
- S. c. trinkutensis — Nicobar Islands;
- S. c. lineatus — Philippines, Borneo, Lesser Sundas, Sulawesi, Moluccas;
- S. c. lepidus — New Guinea and the Bismarck Archipelago;
- S. c. victoriae — eastern Australia;
- S. c. colletti — northern Australia.
Breeding
Pairs are monogamous. Males give a high three-note call like “kwee-kee-kyu” during display. The female builds the nest. Clutches usually contain 4–10 (occasionally up to 14) eggs, ranging from plain yellowish to brown, sometimes with distinct dark speckling. The female incubates for 16–17 days. Bumblebee-sized chicks leave the nest on day one and can eat the same food types as adults from the start. Sexual maturity is reached at 14–18 weeks, and multiple consecutive broods are possible with adequate nutrition.
Husbandry
A compact species for floor aviaries with dense cover and dry litter. Diet should include fine mixed grains, greens, insects and larvae; provide mineral supplements and constant access to clean water. Sensitive to damp and drafts, but tolerate moderate cold in a dry shelter.
Buy Chinese painted quail: ordering and shipping
You can purchase Chinese painted quail from our farm. Delivery across Ukraine. To confirm availability and shipping, contact us on Viber, Telegram, or by phone: 050-182-27-27.
Frequently asked questions
How much space does a pair need?
Plan a floor aviary of at least 0.5–1 m² per pair with ample cover to reduce stress and support natural behavior.
What should I feed chicks in the first month?
Starter crumble for chickens, small insects/larvae, fresh greens, and mineral supplements; water available 24/7.