Montezuma Quail
NameMontezuma Quail
Common NameMontezuma Quail
Scientific NameCyrtonyx montezumae
FamilyOdontophoridae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)22
Weight (g)175
Plumage DetailsMales have a striking black and white facial pattern, a blue-gray bill, and heavily spotted flanks with large white spots on a dark chestnut or black background. Their back is mottled brown. Females are duller, with a buffy face and less distinct spotting on their flanks.
Vocalization / CallA soft, mournful, descending whistle, often described as 'hoo-hoo-hoo' or 'whoo-whoo-whoo', which can carry a surprising distance.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the southwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas) and south through Mexico to Oaxaca.
Identifying FeaturesDistinctive black and white facial pattern (male), Heavily spotted flanks, Short tail, Blue-gray bill, Secretive ground-dwelling behavior
Description
The Montezuma Quail is a small, plump, ground-dwelling bird known for its striking facial patterns. Males exhibit a bold black and white face, while both sexes have distinctive white spots on their dark flanks. They are typically secretive, foraging for insects and tubers in grassy woodlands.
