California Quail
Callipepla californica
Conservation Status
Least ConcernAves · Galliformes · Odontophoridae
About
The California quail, also known as the California valley quail or Valley quail, is a small ground-dwelling bird in the New World quail family. These birds have a curving crest, plume or topknot made of six feathers, that droops forward: black in males and brown in females; the flanks are brown with white streaks. Males have a dark brown cap and a black face with a brown back, a grey-blue chest and a light brown belly. Females and immature birds are mainly grey-brown with a light-colored belly. Their closest relative is Gambel's quail, which has a more southerly distribution and a longer crest at 2.5 in (6.4 cm), a brighter head and lacks the scaly appearance of the California quail. The two species separated about 1–2 million years ago, during the Late Pliocene or Early Pleistocene. It was selected as the state bird of California in 1931.
Fun Fact
These birds have a curving crest, plume or topknot made of six feathers, that droops forward: black in males and brown in females; the flanks are brown with white streaks.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Habitat is shrubby areas and open woodlands in western North America.
Diet
Diet consists mainly of seeds and leaves, but they also eat some berries and insects; for example, Toyon berries are a common food source.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance