I lost two...... :(

[Petej]

Start vent

I went out this morning and found two of my Coturnix adults dead in the cage.

They my oldest two, so I think it might have been old age that got'em. They were HUGE too.

What's the average lifespan of a Coturnix anyway?

/end vent

 

[Wifezilla]

Not exactly sure but I have read anywhere from 4-8 years. That seems like a big range, so hopefully one of the experts will pop in.

 

[shelleyd2008]

In perfect conditions they should live about 3-5 years. I've been losing about one a week here lately, but all of them have been at least 2 years old

And also mostly hens. The cocks live longer since they don't 'wear out' from egg-laying.

 

[jensen]

The fact that they apparently died at the same time seems to indicate old age is not responsible. Was there any sign of trauma -- head injuries, or the like? What is the height of the cage and what material is used overhead. If not injury, I wonder if disease or health issue is involved?

 

[Petej]

The oldest were a couple years old, so that makes sense. Unfortunately one was the Roo!!

I have another younger roo (who just started crowing and is going to a new home), but I don't need or want any more eggs.... The ladies will have to be lonely for awhile!

 

[Petej]

The oldest were a couple years old, so that makes sense. Unfortunately one was the Roo!!

I have another younger roo (who just started crowing and is going to a new home), but I don't need or want any more eggs.... The ladies will have to be lonely for awhile!

 

[Petej]

Whoops, dbl post....

 

[jensen]

If the two died at the same time, the cause would not seem to be "old age." Was there any sign of trauma -- head injuries or the like? What is the height of the cage and what material is used overhead. If not injury, I wonder if disease or health issue is involved?

 

[Petej]

All seemed healthy, though we did get below freezing last night (been in the 40's at night recently).....

AHA! I think that was it. Why didn't I think of that before? and why didn't more die?

Hmm.....time for some warmth outside....

I have some (OK, lots) of hay the nest box now, so hopefully all will be well....

The other 4 are cruising happily around the cage and chirping contentedly...