Coping with the Cold: Challenges Faced by Quail in Winter

Texas is well known for its sweltering summers, but winters in the Lone Star State can be downright frigid. The four native Texas quail species – northern bobwhite, scaled (blue), Gambel’s and Montezuma – can all be found across west and central portions of the state where temperatures can drop well below freezing in the winter. Survival for a quail is tough all year round, but plummeting temperatures make it more challenging with added energy requirements, food scarcity, and increased risk of mortality. However, there are a few things landowners can provide, such as reliable food sources and good cover vegetation to give them a much-needed advantage. Shelby McCay, Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute, talks what Texas quail winter needs. Read more…