California Quail
Callipepla californica
These birds have a curving crest, plume or topknot, longer in males than females. Adult males are gray and brown colored, with a black face outlined by white stripes. Females are a plainer brown color and do not have the facial stripes. In terms of size, this bird typically measures 24–27 cm (9.4–10.6 in) in length, 32–37 cm (13–15 in) in wingspan, and weigh 140–230 g (4.9–8.1 oz).
ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
Gambel's Quail
Callipepla gambelii
The Callipepla gambelii birds are easily recognized by their top knots and scaly plumage on their undersides. Gambel's quail have bluish-gray plumage on much of their bodies, and males have copper feathers on the top of their heads, black faces, and white stripes above their eyes. Their average length is 11 in (28 cm) with a wingspan of 14–16 in (36–41 cm). These birds have relatively short, rounded wings and long, featherless legs. Their diet consists primarily of plant matter and seeds. Gambel's quail can be commonly confused with California quail due to their similar plumage.
ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
Where you might meet both
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Play today's Daily BirdPhotos and recordings are credited to their authors under the licence shown. Full profiles: California Quail and Gambel's Quail.