Bobwhite Quail chicks help and info needed!

[amandashahan]

I have a couple of questions i need asked.
1.My baby quail is rubbing its belly and wings in the food. Is there a reason it is doing this?
2. A couple of my babies have a feather or two sticking out of its head. Could these be males or are they just getting weird feathers.
3. Last question. I've been feeding them chick starter and i cut up shredded lettuce really fine. What kind of bugs can i feed them, i read they couldnt eat anything big because their mouth is tiny and they will get choked. What can i give them because if a gnat or fly get in the cage they fight over it...

 

[TwoCrows]

I have a couple of questions i need asked.
1.My baby quail is rubbing its belly and wings in the food. Is there a reason it is doing this? Sounds like he may be taking a dust bath in the feed...?? You could put in some sand or parakeet grit in a low tray of sorts, so they can bathe. Also, if you are going to feed anything other than chick starter, the quail will need grit.
2. A couple of my babies have a feather or two sticking out of its head. Could these be males or are they just getting weird feathers. Bobs mature slowly. You will not be able to sex them until 3 or so months.
3. Last question. I've been feeding them chick starter and i cut up shredded lettuce really fine. What kind of bugs can i feed them, i read they couldnt eat anything big because their mouth is tiny and they will get choked. What can i give them because if a gnat or fly get in the cage they fight over it... I would refrain from any meal worm feeding at their ages. Bobs are notorious for biting each others toes, and meal worms and toes look alike. So do not start this habit now. You could grind up some dried crickets for them, however too many treats are not good for growing babies. Everything they need is in their starter food. However, I like to offer up some hard boiled egg for a once a day treat. Gives them something to look forward to and they love it so. Make sure to clean up what they don't eat right away as eggs can grow bacteria under heat lamps. Good luck with your babies!

 

[amandashahan]

Thanks