What a surprise I had just before noon upon getting up from the computer and
looking out the window. Dad Mountain Quail was out feeding with a single
baby quail (quail-ette? quail-ing?). The little one perfectly mimiced dad
in its scratching at the ground with its over-sized feet. If it stood still
it almost disappeared against the dry grass at the feeding site, it's
dappled little body being perfectly camoflagued. The top feathers on its
little head came to a point down the length of the head making a most
amazing punk 'hair-do'.

Hopefully there will be more little ones and this just the first fledgling
to venture out with and adult. This is the youngest I've seen young quail
here at my place. They are none too regular this time of year which is good
as the neighborhood cats make regular rounds of the yard.


Mary Hrudkaj
Belfair/N. Mason County
hrudkajm at hotmail.com