Gambel Quail

A common sight in the arid regions of the Southwest U.S. is the Gambel Quail, a small and plump bird with a distinctive black plume on its head. These birds live in groups called coveys, which can number up to twelve members. They feed on various plant materials, such as seeds and cactus fruits, that they find among the dry vegetation. They are able to fly for short distances, but they usually walk or run on the ground, where they are well camouflaged by their brown and gray feathers.