What The Heck Is That?

Lost Dutchman State Park, Arizona

March 20, 2020

That would be a male Gambel’s quail. Native to this neck of the woods. Pretty much a ground bird, although it can fly for short distances when necessary.

The “thing” extending from its head is called a “knot” or a “plume.” Ornithologists believe that the female Gambel’s quail finds the plume sexy and chooses her mate based on which plume she finds the sexiest.

Only one song seems appropriate here..... (I'm glad we outgrew this era.🤣)