Common quail

Scientific name: Coturnix coturnix

Distribution: It is widespread in Europe and in northern and southern Africa. It is a member of the pheasant family.

Habitat: It is a ground living bird found in large open areas, grasslands and farmland. It mainly lives off seeds and insects and can wander over large distances.

Description: This is the smallest bird it is legal to hunt in South Africa. It is a very challenging bird to shoot, as it will not take to the air until you nearly tread on it. It is a very small, round bird with streaked brown plumage and a white stripe over the eye. Males have a white chin.

Hunting Method: Shotgun

Hunting available in: South Africa and Europe