Can I release my king quails into the wild

[Teila]

I highly doubt any flying birds will find them in the grass. Only things would be Wild cats I guess. I don't know if anyone on gum tree will buy them.

A flying bird may not see them but then Hawks have incredible eyesight. However, a bird sitting in a tree will most likely spot them. Hawks do not just attack when flying and have been known to jump down from a branch and pick off prey.

Just a thought but you could try posting your question in the Aussie thread https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/...-that-funny-little-island/31430#post_17715947 where I know there are some people who keep quail and they may also be able to answer the question if anyone would buy them.

 

[lomine]

There are several issues you need to consider.

One is the legality. As twisted-acres already pointed out, you should contact the government agency in charge of dealing with wildlife. It may be illegal to release captive raised animals and/or non-native species (not sure if they are native to you).

The other aspect is the ethical issue. These birds were raised by you so they don't really have the right skills to survive. If they don't starve to death they will likely become someone's dinner. Either way it isn't a good end.

I'm sure you could find someone to take them, either for keeping or butchering. Believe me it would be much better for them to deal with a few seconds of pain while butchering instead of being hunted and eaten alive.

Whatever you decide I suggest you don't let your breeding pair incubate any more eggs until you figure out a proper way to deal with the offspring.

 

[Pork Pie]

Would it not be better to butcher and eat them? I'd think its more ethical than turning them loose to take their chances - not to mention the wildlife / non-native species introduction stuff (if that's relevant).

 

[AustralorpsAU]

Hi. I thought i would share my experience. One day one of my king/button/chinese Quails got out of the pen and within a minute a kookaburra came and snatched it off the ground right in front of my eyes. I dont think yours would have a good chance! Just my opinion