Colinus virginianus
The Northern Bobwhite, *Colinus virginianus*, is a strikingly patterned, ground-dwelling game bird native to eastern North America, instantly recognizable by the male's distinct "bob-white!" whistle. Measuring 9.8-11 inches (25-28 cm) in length with a wingspan of 13-15 inches (33-38 cm) and weighing 5.3-7.1 ounces (150-200 g), this compact quail boasts a mottled reddish-brown plumage that provides superb camouflage. Males feature a bold white throat and supercilium bordered by black, while fe...
The Northern Bobwhite primarily inhabits diverse open country environments, including grasslands, agricultural fields, old fields, pine forests with open understories, and shrublands, favoring areas with dense ground cover. It typically occurs at low to moderate elevations.
Their diet primarily consists of a wide variety of seeds, supplemented with insects (especially for chicks), green plant material, and occasional berries. They forage by scratching at the ground and gleaning food items from vegetation.
Northern Bobwhites are primarily diurnal, spending their days foraging on the ground in small, social groups called coveys. At night, coveys roost in a tight, protective circle on the ground, heads facing outwards to detect predators and conserve warmth. Foraging involves scratching at the leaf l...
The Northern Bobwhite's historical range spanned much of the eastern and central United States, extending south into Mexico, Guatemala, and Cuba. Primarily a resident species, it does not undertake significant migratory movements, remaining in its breeding territories year-round. Its core distrib...
Near Threatened
- The iconic "bob-white!" call is specifically uttered by the male, usually to attract a mate or establish territory. - Northern Bobwhite coveys can include up to 30 individuals, huddling together in a tight circle on the ground at night for warmth and protection, with all birds facing outwards. ...