Mountain Quail are a ground dwelling game bird found in he mountainous areas of the west. About nine inches in length, with a wingspan of 13-16 inches, these quail feed primarily on seeds. Mountain Quail have a gray head and breast, maroon/chestnut throats, an chestnut flanks marked with white bars. Females lay 7-12 eggs which incubate for 21-24 days. Mountain Quail are distinctive from the more common California Quail (Callipepla californica) in coloration, and they have a straight head plume.

Habitat: Mountain Quail are found in mountainous areas of Grant County. They prefer higher areas in the summer, and lower elevations in the winter. Mountain Quail may migrate between summer and winter habitats. Mountain Quail prefer shrubby areas with substantial cover during breeding season.

Range: Mountain Quail are found in the mountain ranges of the western United States.

Where to see them: Mountain Quail can be difficult to spot. The South Fork of the John Day River drainage is a good place to look for them, especially along the South Fork Road.