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Gambel's Quail
Callipepla gamelii
The Gambel’s Quail belongs to the Odontophoridae family with other New World quails. It is distinguished by its black plume, black face, and brown nape complimented by a white forehead and teardrop. Both females and males have brown sides with white flecking.
The Gambel’s Quail depends on plants for seeds, leaves, and sometimes fruit. Insects add essential protein to its diet during nesting season.
It lives in warm desert habitats that tend to have thorny vegetation and good cover. Evening roosting sites include dense shrubs and trees.
Males attract females with small food offerings, and a pair are typically monogamous. Females will build a nest at the base of a shrub and lay up to twelve eggs that she incubates for 22 days. Together the parents will raise the precocial chicks that are able to feed and walk shortly after hatching.
Threats to the Gambel’s Quail include drought, extreme heat, and hunting.
HERE AT ALAMEDA:
We have 2 females and 3 males. It is a very quick bird and a bit shy. Look for them in the rose bushes and in the logs.
Gambel's Quail
Callipepla gamelii
The Gambel’s Quail belongs to the Odontophoridae family with other New World quails. It is distinguished by its black plume, black face, and brown nape complimented by a white forehead and teardrop. Both females and males have brown sides with white flecking.
The Gambel’s Quail depends on plants for seeds, leaves, and sometimes fruit. Insects add essential protein to its diet during nesting season.
It lives in warm desert habitats that tend to have thorny vegetation and good cover. Evening roosting sites include dense shrubs and trees.
Males attract females with small food offerings, and a pair are typically monogamous. Females will build a nest at the base of a shrub and lay up to twelve eggs that she incubates for 22 days. Together the parents will raise the precocial chicks that are able to feed and walk shortly after hatching.
Threats to the Gambel’s Quail include drought, extreme heat, and hunting.
HERE AT ALAMEDA:
We have 2 females and 3 males. It is a very quick bird and a bit shy. Look for them in the rose bushes and in the logs.