The 95 species of Old World quail are classified in either of two subfamilies, Phasianinae or Perdicinae.

Quail prefer open country and brushy borders. In spring the hen lays about 12 roundish eggs, which the male may help incubate. The young remain with their parents the first summer. Quail eat mainly seeds and berries but also take leaves, roots, and some insects. Their flesh is considered a delicacy, as are their eggs.

Old World quail are smallish plain birds, shorter and stockier than their New World counterparts. The bill edge is smooth, and the legs, in many, are spurred.

Pictured here is the best known Coturnix coturnix, the Common Quail of Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is the only migratory gallinaceous bird.