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Northern Bobwhite

The Northern Bobwhite, with its charming whistle and striking plumage, graces North American grasslands. This small quail aids in seed dispersal and insect control, essential for ecosystem health. Males sport a signature white throat, adding a splash of elegance to their earthy hues.

6 years
Lifespan
130.39999999999998 - 255.1 g
Weight
Length: 24 cm
Size
Brown, Black, White
Color
Near Threatened
Conservation Status
Decreasing
Population Trend
Characteristics
The Northern Bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) is a small, ground-dwelling bird native to North America. It features a mottled brown and white plumage, with males displaying a distinctive white throat and eye stripe. Known for its whistling call, this bird thrives in open fields and grasslands, playing a vital role in seed dispersal and insect control.
Distribution Range of the Northern Bobwhite
Colinus virginianus, commonly known as the Northern Bobwhite, is native to North America. Its geographical distribution spans the eastern and central United States, extending into parts of Mexico and southern Canada. The species is primarily found in the southeastern United States, but its range includes states from the Great Plains eastward to the Atlantic coast.
Northern Bobwhite's Habitat
Environmental Conditions
The Northern Bobwhite typically inhabits early successional habitats characterized by a mix of open fields, grasslands, and woodlands. These environments often include agricultural fields, pastures, and areas with scattered thickets or shrubs, providing cover and feeding opportunities. The species thrives in areas with a warm temperate climate, where seasonal changes in temperature and precipitation support a diverse plant community.
Ecological Niche
Colinus virginianus occupies an ecological niche as a ground-dwelling bird, feeding primarily on seeds, leaves, and insects, which makes it an important part of the ecosystem for seed dispersal and pest control. The Northern Bobwhite is adapted to environments where it can forage on the ground while having access to protective cover from predators. Habitat management practices such as controlled burning and selective logging are often used to maintain suitable habitats for this species.