How do button quails differ from most other gruiform birds in coloration between the sexes?

In the order Gruiformes, button quails (family Turnicidae) are distinct because the females are typically larger and more strongly patterned than the males. While many other bird groups exhibit sexual dimorphism where the male is the more brightly colored or ornamental sex, button quail females take the lead in courtship and are often more visually striking than their male counterparts.1

It is important to note that this pattern is not universal across all species within the family; for instance, in the striped button quail, the sexes look much alike. However, the general trend of more pronounced female patterning in this family contrasts with the typical avian pattern where males often display more elaborate coloration.1