Brooder Heat Suggestions

[FauxintheCoop]

Yes, one should be plenty if you're not hatching over 30 birds. I highly suggest a red bulb if you don't do a ceramic heat emitter. Quail are very photosensitive, however they will need light 24/7 until you know for sure that they are all eating, drinking, and know how to get back to the heat source. Then you can let them have natural light cycles.

I have a white bulb right now so I'll do some shopping for a red one, thank you!!

 

[yakitori]

I can absolutely see how I might have some issues with the kennel. I'm covering the inside with cardboard almost completely - the dog kennel is really just my outline/bars to keep the cardboard steady.

Is there a reason you need the kennel than say straight up use a large cardboard box? I use two cooling racks hinged via zip ties as a makeshift access door. I’ve never had issue with boxes holding their structure, and it’s really easy to get one any size you want from supermarkets. Unless your kennel has multiple access doors, It might end up being too deep. Quails are inherently skittish, and it’s no fun having to crawl into the kennel to pick up a bird. I actually prefer a rabbit/small animal cage that opens on the long side. I have a couple of those too, the only reason I don’t brood in those is the lack of a taller wall to contain dust-bathing aftermath, lol.

Oh, and how many quails are you looking to brood?

 

[FauxintheCoop]

Is there a reason you need the kennel than say straight up use a large cardboard box? I use two cooling racks hinged via zip ties as a makeshift access door. I’ve never had issue with boxes holding their structure, and it’s really easy to get one any size you want from supermarkets. Unless your kennel has multiple access doors, It might end up being too deep. Quails are inherently skittish, and it’s no fun having to crawl into the kennel to pick up a bird. I actually prefer a rabbit/small animal cage that opens on the long side. I have a couple of those too, the only reason I don’t brood in those is the lack of a taller wall to contain dust-bathing aftermath, lol.

Oh, and how many quails are you looking to brood?

I'm using it mainly because it has a solid (mesh) roof and is readily accessible haha if need be I can downsize but I'd need to figure out a new top covering.

I'm getting 30 eggs, this will be first ever attempted hatch so I'm not expecting 100% hatch rate.

 

[yakitori]

I'm using it mainly because it has a solid (mesh) roof and is readily accessible haha if need be I can downsize but I'd need to figure out a new top covering.

I'm getting 30 eggs, this will be first ever attempted hatch so I'm not expecting 100% hatch rate.

In my experience they dont need much space the first week, but afterwards will experience explosive growth and pretty much feather overnight during week 2. lol

Thirty, how exciting! I’m incubating 34 right now, but I’m planning to only brood about 8 myself. I simply don’t have enough indoor space to house them beyond week 4...

 

[Cara83]

I prefer to use a red heat lamp and have ordered a ceramic also to try.
I prefer to the first few days use paper towel and they learn what food is first before adding in bedding as I have had issues with them eating wood shavings in the past.

 

[FauxintheCoop]

In my experience they dont need much space the first week, but afterwards will experience explosive growth and pretty much feather overnight during week 2. lol

Thirty, how exciting! I’m incubating 34 right now, but I’m planning to only brood about 8 myself. I simply don’t have enough indoor space to house them beyond week 4...

Best of luck with your hatch!! Im very nervous/excited, trying to do everything perfect my first try... I know I'll learn a thing or two and I really appreciate all your help!!

I prefer to use a red heat lamp and have ordered a ceramic also to try.
I prefer to the first few days use paper towel and they learn what food is first before adding in bedding as I have had issues with them eating wood shavings in the past.

I plan to use paper towels throughout the brooding process but I will be putting the shavings on top, introducing them slowly after the first few days. I've heard and read many a tale of quail un-intelligence so im trying to be as careful as possible haha

 

[yakitori]

Thanks!

Paper towels can be a pain in the butt. I‘ve found them to have very little traction, and get shredded and picked to pieces when the chicks are more than a few days old.

Personally I like shelf liners from hatch until day 2 because they have a good grip, and will help prevent splayed legs etc. I will then have a paper towel, puppy pad or wood pellets underneath. The wood pellets are very absorbent, and will suck in moisture instantly.