*Oology is a branch of ornithology studying bird eggs, nests and breeding behaviour. The word is derived from the Greek oion, meaning egg.

24. California Quail

This part of the Stanislaus Audubon Website is focused on 44 common Central Valley nesting species with background about their nesting habits. Please check the Great Valley Museum Central Valley Egg Collection starting page for links to all the featured species.

CALIFORNIA QUAIL NESTING INFORMATION (From birdsoftheworld.org)

Nests - The onset of reproduction depends on local climate (primarily rainfall) and available food. Egg-laying starts early May–early Jun in the Central Valley. Females lead selection of nest site and building of nests. Nest generally on the ground, well concealed. Hens make the nest by lining a protected depression in the ground with grass and weed stems.
Eggs - Intermediate between short oval and pyriform, white to off-white with brown splotches. Clutch size averages 10 (range 1 to 21).
Incubation - Lasts 22–23 days and the female usually does all of the incubating.
Fledging - Young are down-covered, precocial. Immediately follow parents and peck at the ground.

<< Northern Mockingbird PREVIOUS | NEXT Yellow-billed Magpie >>