Hello!! I am purchasing Coturnix quail in the spring and I've never had quail before. I'm not sure how they are in comparison to chickens but I've heard they're easy. I'd like to know about housing, temperament, feed, and hardiness. Thanks in advance, C
housing: I keep some in homemade double rabbit hutch. other I keep in a 2x2x2 ft wire cage. feed: 27 percent protein gamebird. and 20 percent flockraiser. temperment: nice easy going birds. noise males like to crow but not too noisy. but I like listening to them. they are hardy but I did lose some to excessive heat. just getting into winter but so far they are doing fine. they should be ready to butcher or starting to lay at about 8 weeks old. on the smoker, deep fried or crockpot. they are very tasty
Hi there. Quail are delightful birds that require very little attention, if any. They are very social and primarily ground dwelling birds - but they can fly very well if needed. Keeping quail is very straight forward and they are easily managed. Depending on where you'll be keeping your birds, you should at the very least ensure that they aren't crammed into a confined space, as this in itself can cause your birds to become aggressive bordering lethal. Crammed living quarters have been known to promote obsessive pecking disorder, aggressive behavior and sometimes extreme agitation. The safest way to determine if your space is adequate is by assessing if the quail have room to move freely, evade, nest and hide. Always be sure that low roofs are padded - when quail "flush" they can hurt themselves very badly. Head injuries should not be taken lightly as your quail can suffer brain damage and die. If quail are kept outdoors, they should be given ample hiding places, such as naturally occurring vegetation or potted plants (Spider plants work well because the pups from the mother plant form a "plant-curtain" and the plant is edible). Regardless of where quail are housed, they should be provided with nesting material. Be sure to check outdoor housing for toxic plants, trees, fruits and seeds. Dust bathing is an essential part of daily quail hygiene. However if they are kept indoors adhering to strict hygienic practice should suffice. Note that dust bathing is not only a social activity but it removes parasites as well as cleans both feathers and skin. With regard to food, the minimum requirement for feed is 20% protein because quail mature very quickly (within 6 to 8 weeks) and need the protein to ensure optimal growth and health. Calcium supplements can be given to ensure eggs are properly formed and durable. Additional treats such as seeds, sprouts, hard boiled eggs and greens can be given to supplement nutrition. Noise won't be much of a hassle, however if you plan on keeping a covey with numerous males, they will have crowing competitions which can become bothersome to sensitive neighbors. Other than the constant crowing they are very quiet birds. Quail are generally very hardy birds, provided they get adequate food, remain hydrated and have proper shelter against the elements. ABOT
