Coturnix

Male dwarf quail (Coturnix chinensis)

Erdwachteln (Coturnix ) are a species of bird from the family of pheasant -like ( Phasianidae ), which belongs to the order Galliformes ( Galliformes ).

The genus includes nine species, one of which, the New Zealand Quail (Coturnix novaezelandiae ) was exterminated in the 19th century.

Erdwachteln have next to a small size throughout a round shape, a very short, covered by the long tail wings.

The featherless legs are spornlos, the beaks are short and small.

Species

• Erdwachteln (Coturnix ) Quail (C. coturnix )
• Japan quail (C. japonica)
• Quail (C. pectoralis )
• † New Zealand Quail (C. novaezelandiae )
• Rain Quail (C. coromandelica )
• Harlequin Quail (C. delegorguei )
• Ypsilonwachtel (C. ypsilophora )
• African pygmy quail (C. adansonii )
• Dwarf quail (C. chinensis)
• † Canary Islands Quail (C. gomerae )

Quail and human

Quail are popular as ornamental birds. In addition, both their eggs and their meat considered a delicacy. Were for both purposes and special breeds are bred. For example, Japan quail and quail euros. Quail are popular as pets because they require very little space compared to other birds and chickens are quieter. They can be friendly, if they are considered appropriate to the species and spends enough time. While quail in the wild have a lifespan of about two years, they can be up to five years old in the enclosure attitude with good care. Industrially produced quail feed contains corn as the main ingredient numerous other seeds such as millet or poppy seeds. In addition, it is recommended to give them greens and insects as food.