ID Keys: Contrasting white throat and eyebrow,
rufous body overall, very short tail
The Northern Bobwhite is named after its familiar
bob-white call. They are the only quail native to the eastern
United States. Managed as a game bird in many states, Northern
Bobwhites are at the very northern end of their range in South Dakota, and
populations are susceptible to harsh winters. Note the female Bobwhite
photos at the bottom of the page are female "Masked Bobwhites", a subspecies of
Bobwhite found in the southwestern United States.
Habitat
Can be found in a variety of semi-open habitats, including farmland, roadside ditches, woodland edges, and brushy meadows.
Diet
A wide variety of items, including with seeds and insects making up the majority of the diet. Will also feed on berries, acorns, leaves, buds, roots, and snails.
Behavior
Nearly always forages on the ground, although they will occasionally move into low shrubs and vegetation. Primarily found in coveys except during breeding season, when lone birds or family groups may be found.
Nesting
June and July
Song
Northern Bobwhite song
Migration
Permanent resident throughout its entire range.
Interactive eBird Map
Click here to access an interactive eBird map of Northern Bobwhite sightings
Similar Species
Generally distinctive compared to species normally found in South Dakota.
Feeders
Will occasionally attend for various seeds scattered on the ground.
Conservation Status
A general decline has been noted in recent decades, probably due to habitat loss and changes in agricultural field management. Populations at the northern end of its range are routinely decimated by harsh winters, including those found in South Dakota. The Masked Bobwhite, mentioned above, is rare in its U.S. range.
Photo Information
October 13th, 2008 - Beaver Creek Nature Area near Brandon, South Dakota - Terry Sohl
