California quail feathers are prized in fly tying, particularly for creating soft-hackle collars on wet flies and for crafting legs and wing cases on nymphs. These feathers can be used throughout the body of the fly or just behind the head. Available in a range of colors—including gray, blue-gray, brown, tan, and white—and often featuring speckled or barred patterns, quail feathers from the neck and shoulders are especially unique in color and size. Due to their small size, quail feathers are typically used for very small flies, such as those on trout-sized hooks ranging from 10 to 22.
The California quail itself is a striking bird with a rich gray breast, intricately scaled underparts, and a distinctive, forward-drooping head plume. Its distinctive Chi-ca-go call is commonly heard in the chaparral and brushy areas of California and the Northwest. Often seen scratching at the ground in large groups or moving quickly on blurred legs, California quail are common yet unobtrusive.
These plump, short-necked game birds have small heads and bills, and they fly with short, broad wings. Their tail is fairly long and square. Both sexes sport a comma-shaped topknot of feathers that projects forward from the forehead, with males having a longer topknot than females.
Adult males are adorned with rich gray and brown plumage, featuring a black face outlined with bold white stripes. Females, in contrast, are plainer brown and lack the facial markings. Both sexes exhibit a pattern of white, creamy, and chestnut scales on their bellies. Young birds resemble females but have a shorter topknot.
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