Is this a chicken or a quail?

[mjnaz98]

This feathered friend ended up in our pool, it has some damage but looks much better than yesterday! Any input would be great! If it is a quail will my chickens accept it into the flock? Or should it go to the local bird sanctuary? TIA~Marcy

 

[heartsizedfarm]

Looks like Japanese quail.

 

[heartsizedfarm]

Do you have a quail breeder near you? It may not have come from the wild.

 

[mjnaz98]

To the best of my knowledge there are no breeders around. That doesn't mean there couldn't be a backyard breeder somewhere! Guess I should check craigslist and see if there are any missing birds! Thanks

 

[fancyfowl4ever]

Cortunix quail male

 

[KieksterChicken]

Japanese Quail in the wild are quite common. They are released by the thousands in Canada and Europe. I'm not sure what the law in your area is concerning release of non native species but it may be that someone released some in preparation for hunting season. I wouldn't put it with my chickens for the sole reason that it may be carrying any number of diseases that will decimate your chickens if they catch any of them.

 

[heartsizedfarm]

She looks like a sweetie though.