Northern Bobwhite -- South Dakota Birds

Northern Bobwhite

Colinus virginianus

The Northern Bobwhite is named after its familiar bob-white call.  They are the only quail native to the eastern United States.  Managed as a game bird in many states, Northern Bobwhites are at the very northern end of their range in South Dakota, and populations are susceptible to harsh winters.  

Habitat: Can be found in a variety of semi-open habitats, including farmland, roadside ditches, woodland edges, and brushy meadows.

Diet: A wide variety of items, including with seeds and insects making up the majority of the diet.  Will also feed on berries, acorns, leaves, buds, roots, and snails.

Nesting: June and July

Breeding Map: Breeding Bird Survey map

Song: Northern Bobwhite song

Migrations: Permanent resident throughout its entire range.

Similar Species: Generally distinctive compared to species normally found in South Dakota.

Feeders: Will occasionally feed on various seeds scattered along the ground.

Status: A general decline has been noted in recent decades, probably due to habitat loss and changes in agricultural field management.  Populations at the northern end of its range are routinely decimated by harsh winters, including those found in South Dakota.

Further Information: 1) USGS Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Northern Bobwhite

2) Cornell University's "All About Birds - Northern Bobwhite"

3) E-nature.com: Northern Bobwhite

Photo Information: December 18th, 2005 -- Southwest part of Rapid City -- Dave Stafford

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This page was last edited on 02/03/08