A David Mead original from Pheasants, Partridges & Grouse, published by Christopher Helm (2002)

Plate 60

Marbled Wood-quail Odontophorus gujanensis
Central America, N South America

Spot-winged Wood-quail Odontophorus capueira
E South America

Starred Wood-quail Odontophorus stellatus
N South America

Spotted Wood-quail Odontophorus guttatus
Central America

ABOUT THE BIRDS Wood-quails, which inhabit dense undergrowth in humid forests, are among the most difficult of all birds to observe in the wild. Their calls are often the only clue to their presence. They tend to be at their most vocal at dawn and dusk, when small coveys may briefly break cover. Several of the 15 wood-quail species are seriously threatened by deforestation. The Marbled Wood-quail is the most widespread.

Medium Gouache and watercolour on white Fabriano paper
Image size 10in x 14in (25.5cm x 35.5cm)