There are about 18 species of small, ground-dwelling birds in the buttonquail family. Buttonquails are found in warm regions of Europe, Africa, Asia, and Oceania.

These birds are small and quail-like, usually about 5–7 inches (12.7–17.8 cm) long.

Buttonquails live in scrubby grasslands and open woodlands. They have plump bodies, small heads, and short bills. Unlike many birds, they have three toes on each foot and no back toe.

Their feathers are usually speckled brown and gray, which helps them blend into their surroundings. In most species, females are larger and more brightly colored than males.

Buttonquails also have an unusual breeding system. Females may mate with more than one male. The males incubate the eggs for about 12–13 days and care for the chicks for around two weeks after they hatch.