Ann says:

Hi :

I recently found a male quail in our yard. We live in Arizona. I would like to know why he would be by himself??? I feed the birds so I know why it would attract him. But its kinda sad he’s all by himself is there anything we can do??? I worry about him at night. It looks as if he has no tail. But other than that he looks healthy. He is so scared when we go out into the backyard. So maybe you can write an give me some pointers it would sure be appreciated.

Holly Faulkner says:

February 9, 2018 at 8:21 am

Hi Ann,
Gambel’s Quails are often found in groups but that’s not always the case. It’s perfectly normal to see one by itself. They are also easily spooked, so there is no need to worry about his behavior. He may have escaped a predator without his tail feathers, but they will eventually grow back.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to email feederwatch@cornell.edu.
-Holly Faulkner, Project Assistant

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