The nominate male has a rufous crown, crest, and face, with a ring of bare purple skin around the eye.

[4] The nominate subspecies of rufous-fronted wood quail is found in southwestern Ecuador.

[4] The rufous-fronted wood quail's diet has not been studied, but they have been noted coming to grain at lodge feeders.

[4] The rufous-fronted wood quail's breeding season is believed to span from January to May.

[1] The species is found in several protected areas, but outside them "[m]ajor threats include deforestation, and possibly hunting.