|
Quantity
|
Total
|
||
|
|
|||
Species description
The California quail (Callipepla californica) is one of the most recognizable members of the New World quail family. Body length is typically 23-25 cm. Males and females are similarly colored, with females slightly duller; males show a black throat patch and a bolder facial pattern. Upperparts and head are gray-brown, crest feathers have white tips. The neck and chest are bluish-gray, flanks show fine white longitudinal striping on a brownish background. The belly and undertail are yellow-brown with a black, scaled pattern. Juveniles resemble adults but lack the black scaling on the belly and have a shorter crest without white tips.
Range and habitat
Native to the western coast of North America. Successfully introduced to Hawaii, New Zealand, Chile, and Argentina. Occupies arid grasslands and shrubland from sea level up to 2,450 m. Prefers areas with shrubs 1-7 m tall; uses agricultural landscapes when water is available nearby.
Lifestyle
Predominantly sedentary. Winters in small groups of 10-40 birds that hold areas of roughly 9.6-33.6 ha. Mostly ground-dwelling during the day and roosts in trees at night. Relies on shrub and grass cover for shelter.
Diet
Feeds mainly on seeds of herbaceous plants, with smaller amounts of seeds and fruits of woody plants. Adults also take small arthropods.
Breeding
Nests are well hidden on the ground in a small, lined scrape. The breeding season is relatively late, usually June to September, likely tracking improved food availability after summer rains. Clutch size is 10-17 eggs, incubation lasts 22-23 days. Chicks grow rapidly and reach adult size by 77-105 days.
Status and human significance
An important game bird in the southwestern United States. Since the 1960s some populations declined due to habitat change, whereas in Mexico the species remains common and benefits from forest conversion to pasture. Widely kept as a decorative aviary bird and generally coexists well with other species in mixed aviaries, though co-housing with other galliforms is not recommended. The California quail is the state bird of California.
Buy a California quail: ordering and shipping
At our farm you can purchase California quails. Delivery across Ukraine. To confirm availability and shipping, contact us via Viber, Telegram, or by phone at 050-182-27-27.
Frequently asked questions
Can they be kept in a mixed aviary
Yes, provided there is ample space and plenty of cover, but avoid housing them with other galliforms to prevent conflicts during the breeding season.
What are the minimum care requirements
A dry, spacious aviary with cover and low perches, constant access to clean water, and a seed-and-greens diet supplemented with insects.