Target folder // GAMQUA
Gambel's Quail
Callipepla gambelii · Odontophoridae (New World quail)
Imagery pending
Unofficial mascot of Quail Team Six. Coveys move on foot through cover, so listen for the assembly call before you see anything.
ID Features
- Forward-drooping, teardrop-shaped topknot on both sexes, larger on males.
- Males have a black face and throat, chestnut crown, and a black belly patch on a buff underside.
- Females are plainer and grayer, with a smaller topknot.
- Chestnut flanks with bold white streaks on both sexes.
- Usually seen in coveys running between shrubs rather than flying.
Signals
- callAssembly call, a loud three- or four-note "chi-CA-go-go" used to regroup a scattered covey.
- callMales give a single plaintive "kaaa" from a perch in spring.
- callSharp "whit" or "chip" notes when alarmed.
More recordings: xeno-canto · Macaulay Library
Where and When
- Clark County, NV
- Year-roundDesert scrub, mesquite thickets, washes, and well-planted suburban yards.