How to Identify aNorthern Bobwhite
Colinus virginianus · 9.4–10.6 in (24–27 cm)
Male vs. female
Male
Mottled rusty-brown with a bold white throat and white eyebrow separated by black stripes.
Female
Same pattern but with a buff throat and eyebrow instead of white.
Male photo: Matt Tillett from Cumberland, MD, USA / Wikimedia, CC BY 2.0 · Female photo: Don Faulkner / Wikimedia, CC BY-SA 2.0
Field marks
- White throat and eyebrow on the male, buff on the female
- Rounded, chunky, short-tailed shape
- Intricately scaled brown, black and white body
- Explodes into flight when flushed
Similar species
What it sounds like
A clear, rising, whistled "bob-WHITE!" — one of the most recognisable farm-country sounds.
Behaviour that gives it away
Coveys roost in a tight circle on the ground, all facing outward, which conserves heat and lets them watch every direction.
Habitat & range
Brushy fields, farmland edges, pine savanna and grassland across the East and South.
When you'll see it
Present all year in southeastern, eastern and central North America.
What it eats
Seeds, grain, leaves and insects.
Did you know?
Its coveys roost in a tight outward-facing circle, so the birds stay warm and can watch for danger in every direction at once.
Spot one yourself?
Point your camera at any bird and Aviarist identifies it in seconds — then logs it to your life list.
Get Aviarist on Google Play
More backyard birds
_(25840407180).jpg){kind=link}
Other apps we make
