Montezuma Quail

Description: The smallest quail, Montezuma quail have short, rounded bodies with short tails and rounded wings. The male has an intricate facial mask of black and white with a rust-colored crown protruding off the back of the head. The chest is cinnamon, the belly is black, and the sides are spotted with white and cinnamon. The female is chestnut with a darker back, a lighter chin and neck, and a subtler facial pattern. Both males and females have light-colored streaks on their wings. Average size: 8-9 inches. Average weight: 5-7 ounces. Males are slightly larger.

Science: Generally found in dry mountainous regions from 3500 to 9000 feet and secluded grassy valleys with scattered hard wood trees, these desert quail live in select areas from southern Arizona, into New Mexico and Texas, and south into central Mexico. They spend most of their lives within a ten-acre area, eating mostly tubers, but also acorns, seeds, berries, and insects. They use their legs and claws to dig in the dirt and form smaller coveys of up to a dozen birds. The population fluctuates depending on rainfall, though more upon the new growth in their food supply due to rainfall than upon the water itself. Experts think their range has grown smaller, but the population is stable over the long term.

Hunting: Montezuma quail hold very tight, though when they do flush, they jump straight up, take flight for thirty or so yards, and drop quickly. Pointing dogs are very useful in locating coveys. Once a covey is located, it is easy to find it again, thanks to the short distance they travel. The eating quality is excellent: the meat is tender and mild.