King Quail
Synoicus chinensis
The king quail, Synoicus chinensis, is a tiny ground-dwelling quail native across parts of South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Australia. It is also sold as the Chinese painted quail or blue-breasted quail, and in aviculture the name button quail is often used, though it is not the same as the unrelated buttonquails in the family Turnicidae. Wild-type males are colorful, with bluish gray, chestnut, black, and white markings, while females are more cryptic brown. Domestic lines include silver, cinnamon, white, and other color mutations.
In captivity, king quail are usually kept in aviaries or small quail pens as floor birds. They need secure cover, dry footing, fine feed they can pick up easily, and protection from cold drafts and rough cage mates. Because they can launch straight upward when startled, a low or padded roof helps prevent head injuries. Breeding pairs or compatible groups may hatch precocial chicks that need warmth, shallow water, and very small starter feed. Buyers should confirm they are getting true king quail, since common names are used inconsistently in the pet bird trade.
