Adopted 1931
What is the state bird of California?
The California Quail, Callipepla californica, named California's state bird in 1931. No other state has chosen it.
- State bird
- California Quail
- Scientific name
- Callipepla californica
- Year adopted
- 1931
- Shared with
- No other state
- Status in California
- present all year
- Nesting season here
- March–July
- Size
- 9.4–10.6 in, 4.9–6.2 oz
Seeing a California Quail in California
In California the California Quail is present all year. Comma-shaped black topknot. Scaled belly. 'Chi-ca-go' rallying call.
Frequently asked
What is the state bird of California?
The California Quail (Callipepla californica), adopted in 1931.
When did California choose its state bird?
1931.
Do other states have the same state bird as California?
No. California is the only state with the California Quail.
Can you see the California Quail in California all year?
In California it is present all year. Nesting runs about March to July.
Adoption years from state archives and statutes as compiled in the List of U.S. state birds.