The bobwhite quail was once the most popular game bird in the South. When most agricultural crops were grown in small patches, quail thrived throughout the state (Stribling 1997). High densities of bobwhites, largely a by-product of land-use patterns existed statewide (Stribling 1997).

Since then, most quail numbers have steadily declined. Habitat loss has been a major factor in bobwhites' decline. Clean farming practices that destroy brushy fence- rows and enlarge field sizes continue to reduce habitat that is available to quail (Payne and Bryant).

Fortunately, bobwhite quail have small area requirements and are very adaptable (Stribling 1997). This allows landowners to effectively manage the birds on relatively small tracts of land. Proper management implications can eventually increase quail population numbers in areas where they were once practically nonexistent (Stribling 1997).