The California valley quail is the state bird of California, known for its small tuft on its head and distinctive appearance. They live in groups and lay eggs in hollow nests on the ground, with a single pair producing over two dozen eggs per season.
The state bird of California is the California valley quail. Quail are well adapted to the hot, dry climate that exists in much of California and these birds are found in many places throughout the state. This species was named the state bird of California in 1931.
The California quail is not a large bird, smaller than the pigeon or dove. It is usually seen running on the ground, often forming a line with others of its kind. They often run, one after another, across open areas and through undergrowth. This bird is also sometimes called valley quail, California quail, Catalina quail, or California partridge.
One of the most distinctive characteristics of the California state bird is the small tuft that it has on top of its head. Half a dozen small black feathers are grouped together to form a tiny spike that curves forward toward the c-shaped quail’s bill. This remarkable ornament makes it virtually impossible to mistake the quail for any other bird.
Much of the California valley quail’s body is dark gray, especially the back and upper chest. The California state bird also has black-tipped silver feathers on its underside, wings, and head, giving it a striking appearance. Its breast is covered with a large reddish-gold spot in the male, although the female is much duller in color and lacks the golden tones characteristic of the male. The quail has a black head and chin area and a distinctive white stripe running from the eye to under the chin and a line of white feathers over the eyes.
These birds are very social and live in groups, called coveys, about half of the year. In spring, the birds divide into nesting pairs and lay their eggs in hollow nests on the ground. A single pair can produce more than two dozen eggs in a season, and they care for the young after they hatch. It is not uncommon to see an adult quail or two followed by a long line of hatchlings crossing the road or across a field in late spring and early summer. The California state bird is much admired not only for its beauty, but also for its ability to survive and thrive in what can sometimes be a harsh and unforgiving environment.
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