Gambel's Quail
NameGambel's Quail
Common NameGambel's Quail
Scientific NameCallipepla gambelii
FamilyOdontophoridae
Wingspan (cm)37.5
Length (cm)26
Weight (g)175
Plumage DetailsMales have a black face bordered by white, a chestnut cap, and a black comma-shaped topknot. Their back and upper breast are gray, with chestnut flanks streaked with white, and a prominent black patch on the buff belly. Females are duller, lacking the strong facial pattern and black belly patch, with a smaller, duller topknot.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its loud, distinctive 'chi-CA-go' or 'ka-KAAW-ka' call, often given from a perch. They also produce various clucking and alarm calls.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the southwestern United States, including Arizona, New Mexico, parts of California, Utah, Colorado, and Texas, extending into northwestern Mexico (Sonora, Baja California).
Identifying Featurescomma-shaped topknot, black and white facial pattern (male), chestnut cap, gray body, black belly patch (male), chestnut-streaked flanks
Description
The Gambel's Quail is a plump, short-necked game bird recognized by its distinctive comma-shaped topknot. Males feature a striking black face, chestnut cap, and a prominent black belly patch. These birds are often observed running in coveys across arid desert landscapes.
