A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT to adopt the bobwhite quail as the official game bird of the state of North CArolina.
Whereas, the Northern bobwhite or bobwhite quail is found throughout the State of North Carolina but most common in the eastern portion of the State; and
Whereas, the male bobwhite quail is known for its whistle during mating season that sounds like "bobwhite"; and
Whereas, bobwhite quail live on the ground, where they eat seeds, fruit, and insects; and
Whereas, bobwhite quail are related to turkeys and chickens and are considered game birds in North Carolina; and
Whereas, the hunting season for bobwhite quail usually runs between October and February; and
Whereas, hunters use bird dogs to locate bobwhite quail which are often found in small flocks known as coveys; and
Whereas, the State of North Carolina does not have an official State game bird; Now, therefore,
The General Assembly of North Carolina enacts:
SECTION 1.  Chapter 145 of the General Statutes is amended by adding a new section to read:
"§ 145‑49.  State game bird.
The Northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) or bobwhite quail is adopted as the official game bird of the State of North Carolina."
SECTION 2.  This act is effective when it becomes law.