Day 8: California Quail

Species: California Quail

Current status: Released

Number of days in care: 33 days

Three California Quail were admitted on July 14th, after being rescued from a storm drain in Solvang, where several quail chicks had become trapped. Our very own Director of Rehabilitation, Britt Rickman went into the storm drain herself to retrieve the quail, bringing all of the chicks out and also some spiderwebs.

At intake, these hatchling quail were mildly dehydrated, and they were given fluids and nutrition.

After 33 days in care, the quail were returned to their wild home with a positive outcome for both the animal and the local community, who continue to advocate for solutions to prevent future incidents in the storm drains.

Despite ongoing concerns, including potential safety hazards for both the quail and those attempting to rescue them, the community remains committed to working with wildlife agencies and the city to address the issue. The city manager is exploring possible solutions, including modifying storm drain grates to prevent young quail from falling in.

Thanks to the dedication of the community and wildlife care teams, these quail, now free, can cherish their feathered family in the wild, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in wildlife conservation efforts.

Neighbors who helped rescue the quail. See the full KEYT story here.

California Quail Fun Facts:

• The California Quail’s head plume, or topknot, is made up of six overlapping feathers, creating the appearance of a single feather.

• As an adaptation to arid environments, California Quail can often survive without drinking water, obtaining moisture from insects and succulent plants.

• California Quail pairs call antiphonally, with the male and female alternating their calls in a coordinated pattern. Listen here.

• California Quail nests can hold up to 28 eggs, often due to "egg-dumping," where females lay eggs in other nests.