How to Attract Quail

Quail are ground-dwelling birds that associate with one another in groups called coveys. They are more common in the southern part of the country, but the range of the Northern Bobwhite - the familiar quail of the East - extends quite far to the north. Check a reliable field guide to see what species may be in your area.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• binoculars
• field guide
• birdseed
• birdbath
• native shrubs and grasses

1. Restore some habitat. Quail habitat is fast disappearing as development sprawls across the country. If possible, set aside several acres and plant them in native shrubs and grasses. They should be low-growing plants that provide cover as well as food.

2. Consider planting a food plot if you have the space. A food plot is especially planted with plants that attract quail. For ideas, enter "food plot +quail" in a search engine and see what the possibilities are for your area.

3. Scatter seed on the ground or place it in a low feeder. Quail will eat cracked corn, millet, sunflower seed, or mixed seed.

4. Add a source of water. Shallow ponds or birdbaths placed low to the ground are perfect for quail. Be sure there is a source of cover nearby so the birds can get away from would-be predators when they are wet.

Tips & Warnings

• Any plant from the legume family provides good food for quail, as do lupine, vetch, and clover. Berry-producing plants are also attractive to quail.
• Some feed stores offer quail feed. While this is primarily used for people who raise quail, it can be fed to wild birds as well.