The California quail spends a large portion of its life in social groups known as coveys. In the fall and winter, coveys can range in number from a few to 200, but in the spring, they split up into pairs. Female California quail lay between six and twenty-eight eggs, each of which is creamy white with brown spots. The nests are made in hollows in the ground that are hidden by vegetation.
The native California quail is a plump bird, smaller than a pigeon, with a distinctive black plume on its head and a black bib with a white stripe under its beak. It is known for its hardiness and adaptability. It spends most of its time on the ground, but when disturbed, it will take off on a brief but spectacular flight.
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They are 10 inches long with a 14-inch wingspan. They have a unique plume of six black feathers that interlock at the top of their head, along with many other intricate feathers. When nesting, the females’ muted colors provide them feathered camouflage. They care for the young equally between the sexes, and they lay 1216 creamy white eggs with dark patches. While the flock as a whole feeds and guards the young, one of the males stands watch.
From Canada to Mexico and from the Pacific coast to Utah, California Valley Quail are found. They gather in social groups of thirty to three hundred, with the exception of the breeding season when they divide into smaller groups. Quail inhabit oak woodlands and thickets for protection; they feed on weeds, grains, seeds, and insects. They have a unique call, and when they take off, they make a loud, peculiar noise.
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FAQ
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