coturnix layer feed

[Lilyofsalen]

Hi,
I know that some coturnix keepers switch feed when their birds reach laying age. Is there anyone who uses chicken layer feed? What about Purina game bird breeder? I remember reading a study that states 22% protein is best for laying coturnix, so for those whose feed doesn't meet that how do you make it up? The person who got me into quail feeds 20% protein flock raiser and makes up the rest with mealworms. Would you be able to use a lower protein chicken layer feed and make up the difference with mealworms?

Link to study about protein requirements:https://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?sc...s of 24 and 20,the growing and laying periods.

 

[orloffer]

Chicken layer feed doesn't have enough protein for quail. I'm pretty sure the game bird starter I use is almost 30% protein.

 

[FloorCandy]

I feed my adults this:

https://www.chewy.com/hudson-feeds-poultry-feeds-game-bird/dp/254436

So far they are doing great. I don’t supplement per se, but when I get worms in the yard and garden I give them to the quail, they catch many bugs and ants in their pen. But the food is 24% anyway. I offer oyster shell.

 

[FloorCandy]

Chicken layer feed doesn't have enough protein for quail. I'm pretty sure the game bird starter I use is almost 30% protein.

My starter is 28% protein. They do very well on it, it’s called H&H feed turkey starter I believe.

edit: found it:
https://handhfeed.com/on-line-store/game-bird-crumble-20-pounds/

 

[JacinLarkwell]

Once mine start laying, I've been giving them the normal chicken layer feed crumble. They're doing fine on it so far

 

[Lilyofsalen]

Well, I was also thinking that a cheaper feed would be better. Game bird feed is quite expensive in my area, layer feed however is not. Also, I have a soon to be massive mealworm colony. It now spans 8 drawers, soon it will span 12 and will be hundreds of thousands strong.

 

[JacinLarkwell]

I personally think layer feed with mealworms would be fine, maybe use other sources of protein as well just because mealworms apparently have lots of fat. Are you eating the eggs?

 

[Lilyofsalen]

I do plan on eating the eggs, but only have one laying right now. What would be other sources of protein?

 

[JacinLarkwell]

Crickets (bottled ones for reptiles tonavoid worms) fish, egg yolks

Fish will give the eggs a fishy taste though

 

[GreedySeedFeedy]

If you live within EU, you can order high quality special feed for quail from wachtel-shop.com! I'm nut sure if they ship outside of EU however...