SEASONAL-VARIATION IN THE DIET OF COMMON QUAIL COTURNIX-COTURNIX IN THE EASTERN CAPE

Crops were analysed and dietary components identified from a total of 175 quails (Cotumix cotumix) sampled on several farms in the Alexandri a district (Eastern Cape) during Sept 1994-Sept 1995. Quail were found to feed primarily on forb seeds and insects. Diet did not vary betwee n male and female quail, but varied seasonally, with a decrease in see d consumption during the period of peak quail abundance and breeding ( October-November), when insect consumption increased. Overall, seed wa s the dominant food type (both in frequency and quantity). Quail have a seasonally varied diet, relying on seeds of forbs characteristic of cultivated and fallow fields.