The California Quail in New Zealand

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Abstract
California quail (Lophortyx californica) were introduced into New Zealand between 1862 and 1870. The species is now widespread in the North Island and in the east and north of the South Island. It also occurs in the Chatham Is. but not on Stewart Is. Two sub-spp. are recorded: L. c. brunnescens and L. c. californica. These quail are now perhaps the most important upland game-birds and their range extends from sea-level to 6000 ft. in a climate that varies in mean annual temp. from 50[degree]F to 58[degree]F and in mean annual rainfall from 13 in. to 100 in. Two modified native plant associations are most favoured as habitat: -Leptospermum - Pteridium heath and Poa - Fescue - Danthonia grassland. The "economic density" in some areas studied was about one quail per acre. Breeding begins in Sept. and continues until Mar. but reached its peak between Nov. and Jan. Clutch size is about the same as in the U. S. Nesting behavior and predation are described. Over 60 plant spp.[long dash]of which one-third are endemic[long dash]have been identified in the crop contents and seed is the main material. Body weights, some limb measurements and sex and age ratios are given, and comparisons made between N. Z. and California populations. The following parasites are recorded: Heterakis sp., Hymenolepis sp., Eimeria acervulina, E. mitis, and Goniocotes sp.

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