Birds
California Quail
Callipepla californica · also called california quails
Bobbing a single forward-curving black plume above its head as it leads a tight-knit covey across a California hillside, this small game bird has become such a familiar sight across the state that it was named the official state bird.
Overview
The California quail, Callipepla californica, is a highly social, distinctively plumed game bird native to grassland and forest edge habitat along the western coast of North America, from Oregon through California and into Baja California. Its unmistakable forward-curving head plume, status as California’s official state bird, and preference for running over flying when disturbed make it one of the most recognisable and behaviourally distinctive quail species found anywhere in North America.
A plume that became a state symbol
Few birds carry an ornament as visually distinctive as the California quail’s single forward-curving head plume, a feature so recognisable across the state that it helped secure the species its official status as California’s state bird.
Status
Least Concern, remaining widespread and abundant across suitable grassland and forest edge habitat along the western coast of North America.
California Quail: common questions
Why is the California quail the state bird of California?
This species holds the official status of state bird of California, a recognition of its widespread presence and distinctive appearance across the state, where its forward-curving head plume has made it a familiar and beloved symbol of California's wildlife.
What is the plume on top of a California quail's head?
This species has a single, forward-curving black plume of feathers above the head, more pronounced in males, a distinctive ornament formed by several feathers bunched together that gives the species an unmistakable, easily recognisable silhouette.
Does the California quail prefer running or flying?
This species prefers to run for cover rather than fly when disturbed, reserving explosive bursts of flight for situations where running is not a viable escape option, a preference shared by many ground-dwelling game birds that rely primarily on their legs rather than their wings.
Where does the California quail live?
This species is native to grassland and forest edge habitat along the western coast of North America, from Oregon through California and into Baja California, and it has also adapted well to suburban gardens and parks within this range.