Habitat:
Tropical forests, dense undergrowth

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Marbled Wood-Quail, or Odontophorus gujanensis, is a terrestrial bird primarily inhabiting the dense tropical forests of South America. It is recognizable by its marbled brown plumage, which provides excellent camouflage. This medium-sized bird measures about 25 to 30 cm in length and weighs between 300 and 400 grams. It is mainly terrestrial, often moving in small groups in search of food, which consists mainly of seeds, fruits, and insects. Its ability to remain still and silent makes it difficult to spot in its natural habitat. The Marbled Wood-Quail is also known for its loud and melodious calls, often heard at dusk.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Marbled Wood-Quail, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images from a distance, as this bird is suspicious and difficult to approach. Look for it early in the morning or late in the afternoon when activity is at its peak. Be patient and remain still to avoid scaring it away. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera and adjust the ISO settings to compensate for the low light under the dense canopy.