Quail care

Quail, especially the Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica), are small birds kept for eggs and meat. Because they take up little space, are quiet and start laying at a young age, they are popular for small-scale keeping.

Cage and space

• Roof: Startled quail flush vertically and can hit a hard roof. The roof should be either too low for them to flush or covered with soft netting.
• Floor: They do not perch; the floor should be dry and cleanly bedded. If a wire floor is used, the mesh should suit their feet and be partly covered with bedding.
• Hiding places: Small places to hide reduce stress.
• Predator protection: The cage or pen must be safe from cats and birds of prey.

Feeding routine

Quail need more protein than chickens. Use a complete feed made for quail or game birds. Laying females can be offered a calcium source in a separate dish. Small amounts of greens can be given as extras.

Water

Clean water must always be available. For chicks, drinkers must be very shallow or have small stones placed in them; quail chicks can drown easily.

Daily care

• Collect eggs every day.
• Keep bedding dry and change it often.
• Provide a dish of fine sand or dust for bathing.
• Check the birds daily for movement and feather condition.

Behaviour and social needs

Quail live in groups. Too many males can harm females; one male to several females is generally recommended. Crowding increases pecking problems.

Seasonal care

Quail are sensitive to heat and cold; protect them from overheating and draughts. Egg production falls as daylight hours shorten.