(Callipepla squamata) There are four recognized subspecies, Less white White-tipped including the Chestnut-bellied Scaled Quail. crest or topknot Also known as Blue Quail and Cottontop. gathering call Cream-colored, no streaking Brown throat with streaks A covey is a group of quail. Clutch size: 9-16 eggs Both parents tend Circular roost formations Incubation: 22-23 days to young quail. Bluish-gray to provide warmth and many Peak hatch: June-July brown feathers; watchful eyes for predators. scaled pattern Scaled Quail run to avoid Short, rounded danger. wings and tail What makes good habitat? Having easy access to food, water, cover, and space to support growth and survival. QUAIL FOOD IS IN THE WEEDS TOPNOTCH HABITAT FOR COTTONTOPS Scaled Quail Scaled Quail have a diverse diet that Scaled Quail occupy semi-arid grassland and desert distribution includes seeds, insects, fruits, and leafy communities; however, basic habitat needs are the greens. Insects are packed with protein, same across their range: mixed grasses and forbs, water, and minerals, bare ground, and low-growing shrubs or spiny plants. which are essential for Daily food and cover requirements must be within egg production and a quail’s home range. Sand sagebrush, yucca, prickly chick development in pear, sumacs, cholla, and spring and summer. mesquite provide suitable Seeds and crop grains are nesting or protective cover. mostly consumed during fall and winter. Scaled Quail prefer less Preferred seeds include croton, ragweed, dense cover compared snakeweed, sunflower, and mesquite. to Bobwhite habitat. Pheasants Forever is dedicated to the conservation of pheasants, quail and other wildlife through habitat improvements, public awareness, education and land management policies and programs. For more information visit quailforever.org 1.) True / False: Scaled Quail can be found in my state. 2.) True / False: Both the male and female Scaled Quail have a crest. 3.) True / False: Quail prefer habitat with tall, sod-forming grasses 4.) True / False: There is no such thing as a “good weed.” 5.) True / False: Scaled Quail are social and live in large groups. GOT HABITAT? Sketch in the box to help this quail feel more at home. WImage credits: cb n Greg Lasley, inaturalist.org/people/greglasley (female); cb n , Ad Konings, inaturalist.org/people/adkonings (male) .