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Species description
The Northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) is a ground-dwelling galliform native to North America. Body length is about 22 cm, tail around 6 cm. The plumage is striking: a white facial stripe runs from the forehead to the neck, bordered in black; the nape is reddish-brown. The upper neck is black, forming a dark “collar” around the throat, with grey feathers tipped white on the hindneck. Upperparts are reddish-brown; underparts are rufous-brown with broad pale barring; the breast shows feathers with black edging.
Range and habitat
The natural range covers the eastern United States: Virginia, the south-west of central Georgia, the south-east of Alabama, and northern Florida. Populations are largely sedentary in the south and more nomadic farther north. The species favors steppe-like and semi-arid landscapes, grasslands with shrub cover, open woodland, and cultivated farmland.
Diet
The diet is based on seeds and tender shoots of grasses and shrubs. Animal matter varies seasonally: insects make up roughly 30% in summer and about 5% in winter.
Breed standard (type traits)
Key features include a high-contrast facial “mask”, warm rufous-brown tones above and below with distinct barring on the belly, and a neat stepped tail. The build is compact and sturdy.
Husbandry and breeding
Outdoor aviaries must be predator-proof (rats and other predators) and lined with fine mesh. If hens do not construct nests and lay on the floor, collect eggs for artificial incubation. A hen typically produces 40–50 eggs per season, occasionally 70–80.
Egg storage: up to 7 days at 8–10 °C, point down. Then set in an incubator using quail settings. With proper technique, hatch rates are around 60–65%.
Good to know
Chick starter feeding: from day 1 offer a mash of bran, boiled egg yolk, grated carrot, and finely chopped fresh greens. Then introduce a specialized gamebird/chick starter and millet; from day 10–12 add a fine milled grain mix. Continuous access to clean water and fresh greens is essential.
Buy Northern bobwhite: ordering and shipping
At our farm you can purchase Northern bobwhites. Доставка по всей Украине. Для уточнения наличия и доставки свяжитесь через Viber, Telegram или по телефону 050-182-27-27.
Frequently asked questions
How much space does a pair need?
Provide at least 1.5–2 m² of floor space with cover and dry litter per pair. More space means calmer birds and a higher proportion of complete clutches.
Can they be kept with other quail species?
Possible with ample space and separate feeders, but during the breeding season it’s best to house as pairs to avoid stress and fighting.