ExploreBirds

Gambel's Quail

Callipepla gambelii

Gambel's Quail are small, plump birds with a cute topknot on their heads. They love to run around in the desert and are often seen in groups, making them fun to watch!

Habitat: Desert

Appearance

The Gambel's Quail has a distinctive forward-curving black topknot and a black face framed by white. Males boast chestnut flanks and a striking black belly patch, while females are duller with a smaller topknot.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderGalliformesFamilyOdontophoridaeGenusCallipepla
Gambel's Quail
feathered trait badgesocial trait badgesinging trait badgeherbivorous trait badge
Gambel's Quail

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

19

Interesting facts

Baby quail can run from predators just hours after hatching!

During droughts, they get all their water from the plants they eat.

Hundreds of quail sometimes gather to roost closely together at night!

Their loud, famous 'chic-CA-go' call helps them locate family members.

Special abilities

Ability

Speedy Scrambler

Gambel's Quail can run incredibly fast because their strong legs help them escape predators through dense brush.

Ability

Desert Driller

Gambel's Quail has tough beaks that help them dig for hidden seeds and roots in dry, sandy soil.

Ability

Covey Camouflage

Gambel's Quail can blend into the desert plants because their mottled feathers look just like dappled sunlight.

Measurements & details

Length
25-28 cm
Wingspan
35-40 cm
Weight
0.15-0.2 kg
Lifespan
2-7 years
Top Speed
60 km/h
Clutch Size
10-12
Incubation
21-24 days

Diet & Feeding

These desert birds munch on seeds, leaves, and a few tasty insects.

Age differences: Young chicks eat more insects for protein; adults eat more plant matter.

Primary Foods

  • Seeds (mesquite, palo verde)
  • Leaves
  • Berries
  • Cactus fruits
  • Ants
  • Beetles

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Enjoy watching birds from a distance and don't try to catch them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to identify Gambel's Quail?

The easiest way to identify Gambel's Quail is to use the Snappit nature identifier app.

How long is Gambel's Quail?

25-28 cm

What is Gambel's Quail's wingspan?

35-40 cm

How much does Gambel's Quail weigh?

0.15-0.2 kg

How long does Gambel's Quail live?

2-7 years

How fast can Gambel's Quail move?

60 km/h

What does Gambel's Quail eat?

These desert birds munch on seeds, leaves, and a few tasty insects.

Where is Gambel's Quail usually found?

Desert

Snap Map

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Where to spot

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