Tinamou Great basic information

The Tinamou is a unique looking bird, one with visual similarities to the common Quail. They have a huge variety of sizes, and can be found weighing anywhere from five measly ounces to a much larger and heavier four pounds. With the weight difference, obviously comes a physical size difference, and a large range of Tinamous, each larger or smaller than the last, can be found across the South American Rainforest. They have thick, rounded bodies and are known for their highly developed tail feathers. A few species have crests, thus the resemblance to the common Quail. They have seriously underdeveloped wings, hence the short flight time, but they are not underdeveloped enough to completely prevent flight; just enough to classify them as ratites.