About the Scaled Quail
The scaled quail, also commonly called blue quail or cottontop, is a species of the New World quail family. It is a bluish gray bird found in the arid regions of the Southwestern United States to Central Mexico. This species is an early offshoot of the genus Callipepla, diverging in the Pliocene.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
ID tip
This bird is named for the scaly appearance of its breast and back feathers. Along with its scaly markings, the bird is easily identified by its white crest that resembles a tuft of cotton. It typically measures 25.4–30.5 cm (10.0–12.0 in) in length, 38 cm (15 in) in wingspan, and weighs 177–191 g (6.2–6.7 oz).
Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
Where the Scaled Quail lives
When to see the Scaled Quail
Peak activity in May · a resident species across most of its range
Easily confused with
Elegant QuailCallipepla douglasiiThe elegant quail grows to a length of about 25 cm (10 in).
Gambel's QuailCallipepla gambeliiThe Callipepla gambelii birds are easily recognized by their top knots and scaly plumage on their undersides.
California QuailCallipepla californicaThese birds have a curving crest, plume or topknot, longer in males than females.
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