How to Identify Quail Tracks

Several species of quail are common throughout the United States. The northern bobwhite is a common game species and other species are hunted, too. The California quail is the official bird of its state. Quail live in social groups called coveys that range in size from a handful of birds to hundreds of them. Follow these steps to identify quail tracks in your area.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Search for quail tracks in edges between wooded areas and fields. These locations provide quail with food, protection and nesting sites.

2. Look for tracks in a single line because quail typically walk on the ground. Other species of bird hop, leaving side by side tracks.

3. Take a closer look at overlapping tracks. A covey of quail traveling in the same area walks over already existing tracks, making them hard to notice. Try getting close to the ground and finding a clear track that and use it to identify the bird that made it.

4. Count the number of toes visible in the tracks. Quail have four toes, three facing forward and one facing backward. Some birds have four toes with a gap between the rear facing toe and the foot; but quail rear toes are continuous.

5. Examine the toes. Quail toes are even in width and leave no claw print. The rear toe is angled toward the body of the bird.

Tips & Warnings

• One member of each covey serves as a guard to warn the feeding birds when danger approaches. If the quail notice your approach the entire covey will take flight.
• Be sure to learn your state's hunting regulations before shooting any quail you identify. Rules vary by state and for each species.

Resources

• Visit Quail Unlimited's website for more information about quail hunting.

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