Notes on the Black-breasted Button-quail at Widgee, Queensland

Abstract

Observations are presented on habitat, population, feeding and breeding behaviour, voice and territory of the Black-breasted Button-quail Tumix melanogaster near Gympie in south-east Queensland. The species appears dependent on vine scrub with a moist, deep leaf-litter layer, and occurs in adjacent unburnt forest wilh a deep litter layer. The population has increased since cessation of frequent burning; female territory size is c. 1.5 ha. Food appears to be litter invertebrates. Females appear to have a role in the care of feathered juveniles.