Northern Bobwhite
Colinus virginianus
Conservation Status
Near ThreatenedAves · Galliformes · Odontophoridae
About
The northern bobwhite, also known as the Virginia quail or bobwhite quail, is a ground-dwelling bird native to Canada, the United States, Mexico, and Cuba, with introduced populations elsewhere in the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia. It is a member of the group of species known as New World quail (Odontophoridae). They were initially placed with the Old World quail in the pheasant family (Phasianidae), but are not particularly closely related. The name "bobwhite" is an onomatopoeic derivation from its characteristic whistling call. Despite its secretive nature, the northern bobwhite is one of the most familiar quails in eastern North America, because it is frequently the only quail in its range. Habitat degradation has contributed to the northern bobwhite population in eastern North America declining by roughly 85% from 1966 to 2014. This population decline is apparently range-wide and continuing.
Fun Fact
When threatened, it will crouch and freeze, relying on camouflage to stay undetected, but will flush into low flight if closely disturbed.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Found year-round in agricultural fields, grassland, open woodland areas, roadsides and wood edges.
Diet
Feeds on a variety of weed and grass seeds, as well as insects.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Hunting and Collection
- Climate Change