Summertime marks a critical period for the future of upland gamebirds. It is the hatching and nesting season across quail habitats nationwide, and this vital time significantly determines success in the following fall. With six distinct species inhabiting diverse landscapes from coast to coast, quail are among the most widely dispersed upland gamebirds in the country. Nesting and raising young occur across a broad spectrum of environments, making this period crucial for quail populations.
While regional weather and habitat conditions influence the exact timing, quail nesting and brood-rearing generally commence as early as April and can extend through October. The peak period for these activities typically falls within June and July. Understanding this lifecycle is essential for anyone interested in upland gamebirds.
For those venturing into the uplands during this sensitive time, it’s important to take precautions. Keeping dogs leashed, treading lightly, and being observant of the ground can help minimize disturbance to nesting birds and their young. You might even be fortunate enough to witness the early stages of what will become next fall’s hunting opportunities.
Here are several key insights into this often-overlooked yet critically important phase of the quail’s annual cycle.
Proximity to Edges is Key
Research indicates that a significant majority of bobwhite quail nests are established within 50 feet, and often within 10 feet, of a field edge or trail. Quail rely on various types of cover for different needs, making these transitional zones essential for successful nesting.
The Impact of Mowing Practices
During the nesting season, quail are particularly vulnerable to mortality caused by mowing. Roadsides and ditches, frequently mowed areas, can also serve as vital nesting, brood-rearing, and winter cover for quail. In many regions, these areas represent the only available nesting locations. Therefore, delaying mowing during this period can directly contribute to quail conservation.
Family Dynamics and Nesting Behavior
Northern bobwhite hens exhibit a remarkable reproductive strategy, often attempting to nest two or even three times within a single season. Hens that successfully raise an early brood will frequently endeavor to re-nest and raise another. Bobwhites are also polygamous, a trait that can lead to a female abandoning her initial clutch to start a new nest, leaving the incubation responsibilities to the male. Studies suggest that in some years, up to 25 percent of all bobwhite nests are incubated by males. Furthermore, hens with young chicks may abandon their brood to another adult once the chicks reach 20 to 30 days of age, allowing the hen to re-nest while conditions remain favorable.
Following the hatching of a clutch, adult quail promptly lead their chicks to safer locations offering abundant food and escape cover. The body warmth of the adults is crucial for keeping the young chicks warm until they develop the ability to regulate their own body temperature.
Vocalizations Before Hatching
Gambel’s quail hens are known to vocalize to their chicks while they are still inside the egg, just prior to hatching. The chicks respond with calls from within the eggshell, a remarkable pre-hatching communication that synchronizes the hatching process.
Rapid Growth Fueled by Insects
Quail chicks are exceptionally rapid growers, gaining up to ten times their initial weight within a month. By 16 weeks of age, they essentially reach adult size. This rapid development is fueled by a diet rich in insects, particularly soft-bodied invertebrates that are high in protein and fats. This includes a variety of insects such as crickets, leafhoppers, grasshoppers, weevils, beetles, caterpillars, and spiders.
Survival Through Proximity to Resources
Chicks that can find adequate food sources without extensive travel limit their exposure to dangers, thereby increasing their chances of survival. This directly translates to larger quail populations in the fall. High-quality habitat, abundant in the necessary insects, is therefore key to keeping chicks close to essential resources.
High Mortality Rates
Even in favorable years and ideal habitats, a small fraction of hatchlings survive to their first birthday, with fewer than 20 percent of a brood reaching this milestone. Predation and severe weather events are the primary contributors to mortality. The adult quail encountered in the fall are survivors that have navigated numerous challenges. However, even among these survivors, many will not live to see their second year.
Courting Rituals of Scaled Quail
While often thought to be monogamous, male scaled quail engage in a distinct spring courting ritual known as “tidbitting.” This involves the male pecking at the ground, bobbing his head, high-stepping, and erecting the feathers along his neck and flanks to attract a nearby female.
Hybridization in Quail Species
Hybridization has been observed between different quail species. Gambel’s quail have been known to breed with scaled quail, resulting in a hybrid sometimes referred to as a ‘scramble.’ Similarly, bobwhites can hybridize with scaled quail, producing a ‘blob’ hybrid.
Protozoan Digestion Aid in California Quail
California quail chicks exhibit a unique behavior of pecking at adult feces. This action allows them to ingest protozoa that aid in the digestion of their food.
Remember that the abundant coveys of quail sought after in the fall are a direct result of successful nesting and brood-rearing during the summer. The distinctive whistle heard on a crisp December morning or the explosive flush of quail signifies the culmination of nature’s summer efforts, a testament to the resilience and adaptive strategies of these fascinating gamebirds.
