Deterioration of 35 bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus) foods was measured during the fall and winters of 1974-1976 in the Coastal Plains of South Carolina. Poison ivy (Rhus radicans) and pokeberry (Phytolacca americana) seeds resisted deterioration, while soybeans ( G/ycine max) and mungbeans (Phaseolus sinuatus) deteriorated rapidly. Browntop millet (Panicum ramosum), proso millet (P. miliaceum), pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum), and three Pinus sp. sprouted during winter. Quail preference for the 35 seeds was determined before and after 120 days of ground contact. Quail were selective among food items offered concurrently. Sorghum (Sorghum vulgare), poison ivy and chocolate weed (Me/ochia corchor((o/ia) were preferred. Quail selected against deteriorated seeds. Chocolate weed seemingly offers promise as a managed quail food.
