Gambel’s Quail (Callipepla gambelii) is a species of quail native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. They are a small bird, measuring around 10-12 inches in length and weighing between 4-6 ounces. The males are slightly larger than the females, and both sexes have a plump, rounded body and short tail.
One of the distinguishing field marks of the Gambel’s Quail is their distinctive black plume on their head, which is bordered with white. They also have a prominent crest on their head and a curved black line extending from their beak to their eye. Their body feathers are mostly brownish-gray with white spots, and they have a rusty-colored patch on their belly. The males have a brighter rust-colored chest and belly than the females.
Gambel’s Quail are non-migratory and can be found year-round in their preferred habitat of arid and semi-arid regions, such as deserts, grasslands, and scrublands. They are primarily ground-dwellers and are often found walking or running on the ground rather than flying. They are well-adapted to their arid environment and can survive for long periods without water.
In addition to their distinctive appearance, Gambel’s Quail are known for their distinctive vocalizations. The males have a characteristic call that sounds like “ka-KOW-ka-KOW,” which they use to attract females and establish their territory. They are social birds and often gather in small flocks, called coveys, of up to 20 individuals.
Gambel’s Quail are important game birds in the southwestern United States and are also popular as aviary birds due to their distinctive appearance and vocalizations. While they are not considered threatened or endangered, their populations can be impacted by habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as predation by introduced species such as cats and dogs.