Returning guests to the Gardens will hear the characteristic call of spring and summer – the distinctive song of the Bobwhite! Often hidden in dense vegetation, Bobwhites are heard more often than seen.
The name of this ground-dwelling bird derives from its characteristic call. Click here to listen to the call of the Bobwhite.
Its range extends from Ontario to Central America with the highest densities in the eastern United States and Mexico.
During fall and winter, Bobwhites live in coveys, averaging about a dozen birds. At night they roost on the ground in circles, tails pointed inward,and heads pointed out.
A hike along one of the trails can cause a group of Bobwhites or what is called a bevy or covey to flush, startling the hiker and the birds!
The blog post was written by Tricia Martin, Director of Education. Photos were provided by Ed Rizer, Dave Peters and Sarah Lingwall.