The concept of an “animal ambassador” is certainly nothing new zoos and aquariums have known for a long time that giving people a closer, more personal look at animals is a great way to foster emotional and cognitive connections. People are usually shocked to find that out then we can talk about why that is, what kinds of challenges they face in the wild and, ultimately, why their conservation is so crucially important. The really remarkable thing is how Kirby’s age contrasts with the average lifespan of a wild bobwhite, which is only around 6 months to 1 year. One of the most common questions asked, for example, is “How old is Kirby?” Four years, if you’re wondering. He is a guaranteed conversation starter, and the questions people have about Kirby tend to transition easily into lessons about bobwhites in general. I’ve found he attracts visitors of all ages and backgrounds, folks who approach wanting to meet him, to take pictures, or to learn more about the species he represents. Kids certainly aren’t the only ones who are enthralled by Kirby Quail. It’s actually a northern bobwhite quail his name is Kirby, and he’s an animal ambassador for the Reversing the Quail Decline Initiative. From there we can examine the bird together, looking at the shape of his wings, his feet, his beak, to come to the conclusion that it isn’t anything like a raptor or a duck or a dove, but rather more like a miniature chicken. Nine times out of ten, they have no clue-despite the fact that this bird is a native Texas species, and an important one among grassland birds. They’re right of course, but I want specifics. They’re usually eager to answer my question.
#Quail animal free#
There’s so much excitement at these gatherings-colorful displays, games, candy, and FREE STUFF-that it’s a wonder they pause in their frantic exploration of the show floor to speak to me at all, but they do! The reason is obvious to anyone walking by: they stare wide-eyed at the little brown creature, round with distinctive black and white facial markings, which I hold in my hands-a wild thing that contrasts sharply with the artificial environment of the exhibit hall.
It’s a question I often pose to kids who come by my booth when I promote quail conservation at conferences and events. Northern Bobwhite quail, quail decline initiative
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