Wildwood Zoo Welcomes Northern Bobwhite Quail

Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025 -- 10:00 AM

Wildwood Zoo is excited to announce the arrival of a brand-new species to our collection, the Northern Bobwhite Quail (Colinus virginianus).

This marks the first time our zoo has housed this delicate and charming native bird, and we are proud to take a step toward increasing awareness about its unique role in Wisconsin's natural heritage.

Once a familiar sound in Wisconsin's southern grasslands and farmlands, the clear "bob-WHITE" call of the Northern Bobwhite Quail has become increasingly rare over the past several decades.

Populations began to decline in the mid-20th century due to habitat loss, harsh winters, and changes in farming practices. Today, Northern Bobwhites are considered a species of special concern in Wisconsin, their numbers fragile and scattered, with only small pockets remaining in the wild.

The Northern Bobwhite is a small, ground-dwelling bird known for its distinctive call, rounded body, and mottled brown plumage, which provides excellent camouflage in its natural habitat.

Native to North America, these quail thrive in grasslands, open woodlands, and shrubby areas. Social by nature, they often form tight family groups known as coveys.

Despite their adaptability, bobwhites are highly sensitive to environmental changes, particularly loss of cover and suitable nesting areas. Their populations can fluctuate dramatically based on seasonal weather and habitat quality.

Introducing the Northern Bobwhite Quail marks a first for Wildwood Zoo, both in terms of species care and habitat design. Due to the quail's fragile nature and specialized needs, our animal care team has carefully created a safe and enriching environment that mimics their native habitat.

This new exhibit also supports our mission to educate the public about local wildlife and the importance of conservation efforts right here in Wisconsin. We invite guests to explore the new quail habitat, learn about their ecological role, and discover how even small birds can have a significant impact on the landscape.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.