Gambel’s Quail

Gambel’s quail (Callipepla gambelii) are found across Arizona and are well adapted to survive in the desert. The plump little birds, which are characterized by feathery plumes on their heads and distinctive wing markings, typically live in mesquite-lined areas but also are frequently seen in urban neighborhoods. Their diet consists mostly of seeds and leaves, although they’ll also munch on insects during nesting season in the spring and early summer. “These chicks had just hatched,” says photographer Bruce D. Taubert, who captured this image near Cave Creek. “Note the eggshells. They left the nest a few minutes later.”