A medium-sized ground-dwelling bird native to western North America, characterized by a distinctive comma-shaped plume on its head and robust social behavior.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Inhabits diverse landscapes including chaparral, grasslands, oak woodlands, and suburban areas along the Pacific Coast from southern Oregon to Baja California, Mexico.
Ecological Role
Critical seed disperser, prey species for raptors and mammalian predators, and indicator species for ecosystem health in California's mediterranean landscapes.
Morphology
SKIN COATGray-brown plumage with scaled appearance, white striations on chest and belly, males have more distinct markings
LIMBS WINGSShort, rounded wings for quick ground movement and short bursts of flight, strong legs for ground foraging
HEAD SENSORYProminent black plume (comma-shaped), large dark eyes, short conical beak adapted for seed and insect consumption
BODY STRUCTURECompact body, approximately 25 cm long, weighing 140-220 g, with rounded shape and short, strong legs
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Sarah Stierch
