The California quail (Callipepla californica) was
named the official California State Bird in 1931. [Alternative name:
California Valley Quail (Laphotyx californica). A plump bird, the
California quail is easily recognized by its prominent forward-curving,
teardrop-shaped plume. The adult male has a bluish-gray chest with
white bands below its chin and over its eyes.
The California Quail
is found in mixed woodlands, brushy foothills, and in suburban
parks, usually near permanent sources of water. Highly
gregarious, coveys of up to two hundred individuals may assemble
in the fall and winter to descend on city parks and gardens to
feed on seeds and invertebrates.
