Seasonal variation in the diet of common quail Coturnix coturnix in the Eastern Cape

Abstract

Crops were analysed and dietary components identified from a total of 175 quails (Coturnix catumix) sampled on several farms in the Alexandria district (Eastern Cape) during Sept 1994-Sept 1995. Quail were found to feed primarily on forb seeds and insects. Diet did not vary between male and female quail, but varied seasonally, with a decrease in seed consumption during the period of peak quail abundance and breeding (October-November), when insect consumption increased. Overall, seed was the dominant food type (both in frequency and quantity). Quail have a seasonally varied diet, relying on seeds of forbs characteristic of cultivated and fallow fields.