Diurnal, seasonal and annual abundance patterns of California quail (Callipepla californica) in the Marlborough Sounds, New Zealand, 2010–2019
The California quail was introduced to New Zealand in 1862 as a game bird, and today is held in high regard by recreational hunters. The species is widespread through the North and South Islands, except for the regions of Westland, Fiordland, and Southland. However, it is suspected that populations have been declining in recent decades. Our study focused on the California quail population in the Marlborough Sounds along six road sections between Manaroa, Picton, and Havelock during 2010–2019.