![]() They often seek refuge in trees and shrubs when sensing danger, and they roost in trees at night. ![]() If you get too close, Gambel's quail will issue urgent alarm calls and quickly run away or fly off. Quail travelling together often noisily communicate with one another, and once you've learned their call, you'll always know when they are around. ![]() Their diet is very diverse including seeds, fruit, green leafy material, as well as insects and other small arthropods. They are particularly common near washes and other areas with native vegetation. During the summer months, small family groups can often be seen running swiftly down alleys and quiet neighborhood streets in Tucson. In fall and winter, they gather into large groups called coveys. They are gregarious, mostly ground-dwelling birds. Gambel's quail is native to the desert regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. The California quail ( Callipepla californica) has a very similar appearance, but this species does not occur in the Tucson area. Adult males have dark patches on throat and belly, while females and immatures lack these striking markings. This beautiful, conspicuous bird is easily recognized by the slender, plume-shaped crest, which often curves forward, so that the tip is in front of the bill. Male (left) and female (right) Gambel's quail. I hope that this information will serve as a starting point for further explorations of the birds in and around Tucson.Ĭlick on an image to view larger version & data in a new window ![]() On this page, I will introduce you to a few birds that are common in the neighborhoods of urban Tucson. If you live in Tucson and don't pay attention to the birds around you, you are missing out on a great opportunity to enrich your life. But even in the city of Tucson, we have an abundance of beautiful and interesting birds. Most of our bird diversity is in the mountains and canyons of the Chiricahuas, Huachucas, and Santa Ritas. People from all over the world come here just to see our fabulous birds. Southeast Arizona is one of the most interesting areas for birders in all of North America. ![]()
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