I get a real kick out of seeing these little birds. Brown quails are one of two introduced quail species in Aotearoa – originally from Australia, they have filled the niche of our now-extinct endemic quail. They’re mostly found in the north, and are easiest to find on Tiritiri Matangi or at Tāwharanui Open Sanctuary (but these birds found me in my friend’s garden near Whangārei). I love the diversity in the patterning of their plumage, all the different shades of brown and russet and buff and grey that camouflage them so well – until they venture out on to green grassy lawns! While not the most photogenic backdrop, it’s much easier to get a clear shot than in tangled undergrowth where they like to hide in the shadows.