This is the state bird of California.

Quail spend most of their time foraging on the ground, therefore their tracks are found in a line, one after the other. Both male and female have a teardrop-shaped tuft of dark feathers on top of the head, although the female is not as boldly colored as the male.

After the breeding season, quail live together in groups called coveys. These groups of up to 200 birds are composed of parents and young.

Parents closely watch their young. While the group is feeding, one bird will act as a sentinel to warn the group of any approaching danger. If you’re hiking along and startle a covey of quail, they will all burst into flight at once with a roaring of wings.

These small, plump birds roost in trees for safety. They can be found inhabiting parks and woodland edges.

Quail tracks are frequently found on sandy river bars.

Their calls can be heard in the summer. The call, which sounds like Chi-ca-go, is often given from a low perch.

i frequently hear these birds when I'm out hiking. Many times, I have startled a covey of quail and they have taken wing with a roar. It's pretty loud when about 50 birds take flight all at once! The call of the quail reminds me of summer and many pleasant walks in my favorite campground, Albee Creek Campground. When the young quail are hatched, they follow their parents around in a little group. I've watched several broods grow up. The little quail will run and hide at the first sign of danger. One of the parents is always on the lookout for any predators. I've always enjoyed seeing quail.