Burrowing quail (SciiFii)

The burrowing quail (Edaphornis cuniculus) is a species of galliform, most closely related to the California quail (Callipepla californica), that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the open woodlands, grasslands, shrublands, scrublands, and deserts across North America to help boost biodiversity. The burrowing quail is a rabbit-like bird in terms of most of its behaviour, although its burrowing and nesting behavior is more similar to puffins (Fratercula), and so an important prey item for many of the North American predators. Unlike most quails, the burrowing quail is entirely flightless and relies on its speed and agility to escape from potential danger, using its wings to flap to help stabilize its body while running. The burrowing quail is omnivorous and primarily feeds on grasses, seeds, roots, shoots, tubers, bulbs, and vegetables, although it is known to feed on insects, spiders, worms, and much smaller vertebrates at times. The burrowing quails breed in flocks and both sexes help to construct their nest. Where rabbits breed, sometimes burrowing quails breed in rabbit burrows. The nest is usually a simple burrow dug with the bill and feet, but sometimes a crevice between rocks is used instead. It is well-lined with vegetation and feathers. Courtship occurs through skypointing, strutting, and billing. Between 2 and 7 eggs are laid, usually between late March and early April, and incubated by both parents for about 45 days. Fledglings leave the nest at between 40 and 55 days. The conservation status of the burrowing quail is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the burrowing quail's wide range and its tolerance to many of the human activities.
Category:Animals
Category:Species
Category:SciiFii