Description:
The popular Bobwhite Quail is a favorite of game
bird breeders, hunters and bird lovers alike. Just
about everyone is familiar with male's call for which
the species is named. These plump little birds have
the most widespread range of any quail species, with
over 20 subspecies ranging from Canada to southern
Mexico.
Of the subspecies, the Eastern Bobwhite, is
the most often kept and seen. They are found in a
variety of habitats, from open woodlands & fields
to suburban parks. Males have a white throat and
eye-line, with a dark crown and a black line that
separates the white on the throat to the eye-line. The
lower breast is mottled white & dark brown; sides
have light brown streaks and the back and rest of the
body mottled brown overall; tail gray. The hens are
similar, but her throat and eye-line is buff and her
overall color is somewhat lighter. They form large
groups during the winter called coveys. These coveys
can consist of up to 30 or more birds and when
disturbed, all will burst into flight at once.
A rarer subspecies, the Masked
Bobwhite, is native to the Southwest. They are
popular with breeders in captivity, but remain on the
Endangered Species List in the wild. These birds are
similar to the eastern race, but males have a very
dark face & throat. They also appear darker
overall.
The further south you travel into Mexico, the
Bobwhite subspecies differ a great deal from the
northern counterparts. Many have much more white on
the throats and a more detailed barring on the breast.
It is a shame that some of these races have yet to
make their way to our aviaries, as they are beautiful
birds. Perhaps in the future, some may make their way
and become established in captivity.
|