Can i raise baby quail on sand?

[jwatts]

i have 18 2 week old coturnix quail that i am getting ready to transfer off the fish tank and into a small hutch. Can i use kids play sand for there bedding? I just put them in, they seem to pck at the sand,just wondering if this is a no no or not? Thank you

 

[TwoCrows]

Absolutely! I use sand in the chicken coops, quail aviaries and the parrot cages. It absorbs the moisture in the poop, the smells are gone and it is great for the feet pads. Soft yet exfoliating. Another benefit if you use river or wash sand, it comes with it's own gizzard stones!

 

[jwatts]

Thanks twocrows, I was nervous they would be harmed if they ate the sand. Today they seem to not peck at it too much.

 

[TwoCrows]

Yes, it is common for poultry of any age to eat a lot of sand or dirt when they first get a chance at it. And as you have seen, the following days they don't need as much. The sand is great as grit for quail of all ages.

 

[jwatts]

i also got a mesh scooper for reptile tanks, wow it works great for cleaning the cage!!!

 

[jwatts]

Twocrows, I just checked this morning and I had 5 dead quail. I don't understand what happened. They seemed to be doing fine then all of the sudden dead. I was wondering if it was the sand or not. All the others seem to still be very healthy. I'm not sure what went on.

 

[TwoCrows]

These chicks are the 2 week olds? I highly doubt the sand had anything to do with it. Even if they ate it all day, it would pass thru them. At this age, sounds like cocci to me. Quite common at ages 2 to 4 weeks old. Unchecked and it kills fast.

What is the consistancy and color of the poop? What is your brooder temp today? You should be around 90 degrees for 2 week olds. Any other signs?

 

[jwatts]

I can't tell by the color because it seems to get sand mixed in with it and I'm reading about 88 deg. Chances are they pecked at the "wrong" food.

 

[TwoCrows]

I don't know what to tell you Jwatts, poultry of all ages are kept on sand all around the world with no ill effects. If you are still concerned they ate too much sand, then do a necropsy on one of them to see just what is inside the crop and stomach.

I personally think something else is going on with your chicks. Sorry you are having so much trouble.