THE NORTHERN BOBWHITE IS ONLY NATIVE QUAIL IN THE EAST. ITS WHISTLE-LIKE CALL IS A FAMILIAR SOUND IN SPRING IN ACROSS FARMS AND MEADOWS. THESE BIRDS ARE HEARD MORE OFTEN THAN SEEN, AS THEY OFTEN KEEP LOW TO THE GROUND.

During fall and winter, bobwhites live in groups, averaging about a dozen birds. These birds are mostly foragers, spending much of their time on or near the ground in search of insects, seeds, and leaves. Northern bobwhites build their nests close to the ground as well, protected by the dense growth found in grassy meadows and fields.