What is a valley quail?

_Lophortyx californicus_ (California Quail) are small, ground-dwelling birds found throughout California and into Oregon and Washington. Valley quail inhabit grasslands and scrublands, especially those with trees for roosting. They feed primarily on seeds and greens.

Habitat:

Valley quail are most abundant in the riparian and valley foothill habitats of the Sierra Nevada, but are also found in grassland, scrubland, woodland and chaparral. They prefer grassy areas with scattered shrubs and trees for cover.

Nest:

Nests are hidden on the ground in grasses, shrubs, or trees, and are made of grasses and feathers. Females lay 12-15 eggs, which they incubate for 21-23 days. The chicks are precocial and leave the nest soon after hatching.

Conservation Status:

Valley quail are classified as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, their populations are declining due to habitat loss, hunting, and predation.