Oreortyx pictus
The Mountain Quail (Oreortyx pictus) is the largest and arguably most striking of North America's quails, easily recognized by its unusually long, straight, black head plume that often curls slightly backward. This elegant gamebird measures 10.2-11.8 inches (26-30 cm) in length with a wingspan of 14-16 inches (36-41 cm) and weighs 7-12 ounces (200-340g). Key identification features include its distinctive slate-gray breast, rich chestnut flanks boldly barred with white, a reddish-brown cap, a...
Found in mountainous, brushy habitats, typically within coniferous or mixed deciduous forests, chaparral, and dense shrublands. Prefers steep slopes and dense undergrowth from low elevations up to 10,000 feet (3,000 meters).
Primarily consumes seeds, leaves, and berries, supplemented with insects during the breeding season. Forages almost exclusively on the ground, scratching in leaf litter.
Mountain Quail are diurnal, active primarily during early morning and late afternoon, often roosting in dense cover at night. They are primarily ground foragers, scratching vigorously through leaf litter and undergrowth for food, often leaving characteristic 'digger holes.' Males establish and de...
The Mountain Quail is endemic to western North America, primarily inhabiting mountainous regions. Its breeding range extends from south-central Washington, through Oregon and California, into the northern Baja California peninsula in Mexico. Inland, populations are found in parts of Idaho, Nevada...
Least Concern
- The Mountain Quail possesses the longest, straightest head plume of any North American quail species. - Despite its name, it can be found from sea level up to elevations exceeding 10,000 feet (3,000 meters) in some parts of its range. - These quails are incredibly adept at running uphill throug...