Quail, Northern Bobwhite

Physical Description

The Northern Bobwhite Quail, scientifically called Colinus Virginianus, is a relatively small but plump bird. It weighs around 6 to 7 ounces and measures 8 to11 inches in total length. It has a rounded body with an especially short gray – colored tail that measures only a few millimetres in length. The quail has a short but stout beak that is curved and is dark brown in color. It has powerful feet and claws that greatly assist the birds in its feeding activities.

In terms of color, the bird is mixed with several. These are mainly brown, white, black and gray. For most of these quails however, their feathers are reddish-brown in color with back and sometimes white spots all over.

The bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus) which received its name from a distinct, whistled "bobwhite" call is a small, but plump bird that measures 8-11 inches in length and weighs around 6-7 ounces

Habitat

These quails are mainly found in grasslands as this environment provides them with several necessities such as food sources and protective cover for nesting. They are also popularly found in agricultural fields, woodlands and near several roadside areas. There are several such ideal locations in the United States. These include Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Kansas and Oklahoma. The quails are also sometimes found in Nebraska and Texas. Mexican and Caribbean territories are also locations in which this ground-dwelling bird can be found.

When the bird is threatened or alarmed, it often "freezes," allowing its camouflage coloring to blend into its surroundings.

Diet

Seeds and fruits make up the greatest part of this quail’s diet. Occasionally they will eat insects, when the availability of their usual food is low.

Behavior

This bird, also known as Bobwhite Quail, is extremely secretive. It is often very difficult for people to ascertain their exact living location as these birds continuously managed to remain discrete. The birds are actually very shy and will hide away when approached. They tend to crouch and freeze when threatened, relying heavily on camouflage remain concealed. These birds mainly take part in walking as their preferred mode of transport and tend to fly only when left with no alternative.

The birds are actually quite solitary but can be found in groups of different sizes at certain times of the year. For example, early in the year they can be found in pairs but as winter approaches they form roosts of several birds. Both parents take part in the raising of the young. Incubation is carried out by both and so is the feeding which begins after the 23 to 24 days of incubation. Each clutch consists of up to 16 eggs.

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