The Northern Bobwhite is a small, rotund quail whose clear 'bob-WHITE' whistle is one of the most familiar sounds of farmland and brushy areas in the East. Its population has declined by approximately 80% since 1967, making it one of North America's most steeply declining bird species. Coveys of 10–20 birds huddle in a tight rosette overnight, all facing outward for predator detection.
Best time to see a Northern Bobwhite
The best time to see a Northern Bobwhite is April–July, when about 65% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 8,870 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Northern Bobwhite? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
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