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Callipepla californica
Large quail that stood 15-20cm tall. Family group of 10 birds. The 'alpha' male watched over his flock, keeping watch whilst the family foraged for food. There was a smaller skittish male that was very weary of our presence and kept his distance. The males have a characteristic dark head and chin and curved head plumage. The female and juveniles were brown, which blended into the background when still. They could also move quickly when disturbed.
Foraging in grass beside road, but when disturbed ran for cover in amongst low bushes. Te Mata, New Zealand.
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introduced species?!