California Quail
NameCalifornia Quail
Common NameCalifornia Quail
Scientific NameCallipepla californica
FamilyOdontophoridae
Wingspan (cm)34.5
Length (cm)25.5
Weight (g)200
Plumage DetailsMales have a striking black face bordered by a bold white stripe, a chestnut crown, and a prominent black, forward-curving plume. Their back is olive-brown, flanks are streaked with chestnut and white, and the belly shows a scaled pattern with a chestnut patch. Females are duller with a smaller plume and less defined facial markings.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive three-note call, often described as 'chi-ca-go' or 'chi-ca-go-go,' used to keep coveys together. They also produce various alarm calls and softer contact notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to California and other parts of the western United States, extending into Baja California, Mexico. It has also been introduced to other regions, including British Columbia, Hawaii, and New Zealand.
Identifying Featuresblack forward-curving plume, black face with white border (male), scaled belly pattern, chestnut crown (male), distinctive 'chi-ca-go' call
Description
The California Quail is a plump, short-necked game bird known for its distinctive forward-curving plume. These social birds are often seen foraging in coveys on the ground in open woodlands and chaparral.
