Heat tolerance

[JDB99]

How hot can quail take? I have 5 gallon buckets connected to waters so they have basically unlimited water, I also have tarps over the cages. However its supposed to get to 105f tomorrow with a heat index near 110 or so. Anyone have experience with this kind of heat and their quail?

 

[anna-newhampshire]

We had 105 heat index and my blind one had wandered into a sunny spot and started panting in a very exaggerated, scary way. I soaked her feet and belly (like a duck) with cool water and she calmed down. You need to put ice in their drinking water and soak them (with cool, NOT icy water) if they are in extreme distress. Good luck.

 

[JDB99]

The quail all survived today, it got up to 109 with 60% humidity. I had them under a tree in the shade. I did lose 2 chickens sadly.

 

[le_bwah]

As long as the birds have full shade, ventilation, and plenty of water, they should be alright. Frozen water bottles, wetted feed/treats, and shallow pans of water are all great for combating the heat. If you have any doubts, it could be worth looking into a mister (mine don't need theirs, but they love it).