Hurray for babies

[alwaysafarmboy]

All the literature says coturnix quail don't set on their own eggs. I had 4 of my quail set and I must be doing something right. 1st hatched one, second hatched 2, third hatched 4 but only 2 survived, and my fourth has 5 little ones. Considering I only had 6 hens and 3 cocks to start that is pretty good odds. The first 3 chicks are all laying eggs and it even looks like one might be getting broody herself. Anyone else have any luck so far?

 

[vigibigi]

We've just had two sets of babies hatch 3 weeks ago naturally. Out of three hens 2 became broody within 5 days of each other. Although both were sitting on over 10 eggs, both hatched 4 each, and both had only 3 survive the first few hours. We we're very surprised considering the number of people who say it never happens, but we've figured it must be because our quails' habitat is pretty natural, no caged flooring just hay and sticks and things. how about yours??
Very proud all the same, its lovely to wake up and spot babies popping out from under their mamas.

 

[alwaysafarmboy]

My pen was actually my old dove pen with a wooden floor and a window. I am actually looking for plans to make cages with a wire for just for sanitary reasons. I think providing them someplace to lay there eggs is the key and not having them lay everywhere. What are your thoughts. If you know of any plans for cages let me know thanks.