John Batchelder saw the first covey of California Quail last week Saturday. There are 14 chicks in all. Can you spot them all? Dad is the handsome fellow on the left, always watching out for his family. Mom is to the right.
Quail have a three-note call, which you can hear at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology website: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/California_Quail/sounds
Thanks to John for allowing me to share his photo with you here.
Yesterday the fog disappeared. The fireworks off the Point Arena Pier were amazing last night. Today is once again fog-free. It's a spectacular day on the Mendonoma Coast!
Dave Bes
It's always amazing to see the male stand sentry duty atop a tall shrub while mom and the kids browse under his protective watch. I've often wondered if there is a school they attend to learn surveillance techniques under the watchful eye of some senior quail. Sort of a boot camp for young cocks. Graduation ceremonies and everything. Cheers.
Jeanne Jackson
Post authorAnd the males are so handsome!