More protein?

[JaeG]

I agree, our options are dismal when it comes to feeding quail. And the formulated, higher protein feeds need to be shipped which gets expensive when you have a few birds.

I have bought freeze dried crickets before for quail chicks and blended them into a powder to mix in with what I usually feed mine (NRM Meatbird Crumble which is 20% protein, blended up for the littlies). The crickets are 60% protein so you don't need much.

 

[007Sean]

That study just proves what I've been saying for years....24% protein is adequate. Too high protein and it causes health problems just the same as too low a protein.

 

[JoeQ]

I wouldn't feed less than 22%. Growing quail chicks will need a lot more than 19% for sure. You can add things that are high in protein to the feed. Some common things are cooked eggs, mealworms, fish, dry cat food, sprouted grains (watch the fat or salt levels). For chicks you will have to make sure everything is chopped really small. If you give anything other than commercial feed or cooked eggs you will need to provide some kind of grit (plain sand is good).

I'm surprised a meat bird feed is so low in protein. Even my Flock Raiser that I feed to my chickens and ducks is 20%. I use Manna Pro gamebird/showbird for the quail (24%). You may want to look at the other feeds available to you. Usually turkey feed is higher in protein. Also maybe a feather mixer mix.

I use a turkey starter, its 28%