Gambel's quail
The plump, topknotted desert bird you will see scurrying in family coveys; harmless and a neighborhood favorite.
Callipepla gambelii
- Look for
- A forward-curling black topknot plume and a scaled belly
- Travels in
- Coveys (family groups), usually on the ground
- Harmless
- No threat to people or pets; helps eat insects and seeds
Gambel's quail are one of the most beloved sights in Tatum Ranch: round, ground-dwelling desert birds with a distinctive forward-curling topknot, scurrying across yards and driveways in family coveys with a line of chicks in spring. They are harmless and help keep insects and weed seeds in check.
They will use yards for cover and food, and native desert plants give them the low shelter they prefer. If you enjoy watching them, keep in mind that outdoor cats and dogs are their main backyard threat, and that ground-level cover is what keeps coveys around. There is nothing to manage here beyond enjoying them and giving nests a wide berth in spring.
Safety and coexistence
- No safety concern; enjoy them from a distance
- Native low shrubs give quail the cover they prefer
- Keep cats and dogs from disturbing coveys, especially nesting birds in spring
For current, official guidance, see azgfd.com. In a life-threatening emergency, call 911.
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Jon Hegreness, REALTOR / Associate Broker, Howe Realty. 9059 W Lake Pleasant Pkwy, B-200, Peoria, AZ 85382. (623) 826-0888. JonHegreness@gmail.com. License BR540940000. tatumranchhomesforsale.com.