Bert and Ernie the Common Quails
Hatched: Unknown
Arrived at WSWC: November 4, 2020 and November 5, 2020
Sex: Males
In November 2020, these two male quails were found in an Etters, PA, neighborhood. Both birds had significant injuries and were underweight. As domestic birds, they likely escaped from a backyard flock and would not have survived if left in the wild. Their unique, fun personalities made them a welcomed addition to the West Shore Wildlife Center family.
After 2 years at the wildlife center, Ernie passed away Dec 9, 2022, and Bert passed away Dec 24, 2022, both due to old age.
About Common Quails
Size: Typically weigh 70 - 150 grams, about the same as two hard-boiled eggs
Lifespan: Common Quails only live about one year in the wild, but can live up to five years in captivity
Diet: Primarily eat seeds but will also eat other plant matter and insects
Reproduction: Males and females make different calls that aid in courtship. Breeding pairs are sometimes monogamous, but not always. Females generally lay clutches of about seven eggs and young are independent by two months old.
Range: Common Quails are found across Europe and in parts of Africa and Asia. They prefer open habitats and grasslands. They are commonly kept as farm birds across the world.
Other Facts: Males and females can be told apart by the differences in their plumage, with females having a speckled pattern on their chest. Quails are kept on farms both for their meat and eggs.