GAP Analysis Predicted Distribution Map

California Quail (Callipepla californica)

Species Code: CACAL

Legend:
= Core Habitat
= Marginal Habitat

Breeding Range Map
The green area shows the predicted habitats for breeding only. The habitats were identified using 1991 satellite imagery, Breeding Bird Atlas (BBA), other datasets and experts throughout the state, as part of the Washington Gap Analysis Project. Habitats used during non-breeding months and migratory rest-stops were not mapped.

Metadata (Data about data or how the map was made)

Click to enlarge distribution map

Map with Breeding Bird Atlas records

Other maps & Information:

Breeding Bird Atlas
NatureMapping observations
during breeding season
NatureMapping observations
throughout the year

This species was introduced from the southwestern United States. It was common and widespread in shrubby areas, farmlands, riparian shrubs, residential areas, and city parks. In western Washington, they were found chiefly along the Puget Trough and south to the Willamette Valley, in the San Juans, and near Sequim. In eastern Washington, they were found in most areas below the lower treeline. However, they were absent from the vast tracts of dry wheat in eastern Washington and the moister river valleys of extreme northeastern Washington.

The core areas of use were Puget Sound Douglas-fir, Woodland/Prairie Mosaic, Western Hemlock, Willamette Valley, Interior Douglas-fir, Grand Fir, Oak, Ponderosa Pine, and all steppe zones. In steppe, Oak, and Ponderosa Pine zones, low to mid-density residential areas and parks, wetlands, irrigated agriculture, steppe, and open forests were good habitats. The other zones were treated similarly, except that all forests were excluded.

California Quail have adapted very well to Washington's habitats, making their introduction nearly as successful as that of the Ring-necked Pheasant. In eastern Washington, they are mostly found in areas near water, such as shrubby riparian areas or near potholes ponds. In the Blue Mountains, this species is expanding up creek and river valleys. In western Washington, it can be found in a variety of open shrubby/grassy habitats including frm lands, old fields, parks, and even residential yards.

Translated from the Washington Gap Analysis Bird Volume by Uchenna Bright
Text edited by Gussie Litwer
Webpage designed by Dave Lester