New to bobwhite quail, and would like some info

[313759]

What am I supposed to do if the females don't like the male? maybe it might just take some time, I'm pretty sure both females and the male were raised together but are not related

 

[TwoCrows]

If he is all there is, one of them will choose him. This is where the problems can arise. Lone females can be killed by the other female. She does not want another hen near her rooster. I had this happen in my aviary once when a hen got loose near the Alpha male and his Alpha female. The female chased this lone hen down and ripping out her flesh until she died. I wasn't there at the time and found her later. I was shocked and saddened by this. So be very careful when doing trio's and Bobwhites. I will never allow this to happen ever again. Pairs only.

 

[313759]

Will a hen die without a mate?

When a male goes to court with his female, what does he do, like does ha make crowing sounds or something?

 

[313759]

How do I know if the hen has chosen him?

 

[TwoCrows]

You will have to watch closely to see which female is hanging out the most with him. You could always choose who goes with who if you wish since there is only one male and two females. However generally the pair will hang out together when breeding season starts.

 

[313759]

I did see one of the hens grooming the males face but I am unsure if that has anything to do that relates to mating

 

[TwoCrows]

This is definitely a good sign but not sure fire yet. Keep an eye on this particular female. She may have chosen him.

 

[313759]

I hope she did!!!

I set up a dark spot for them to rest and a hen to lay her eggs when it's time. It's just a thick brushed pine branch that was clipped and cut to fit inside the pen, it is above the ground so they can crawl under it and for bedding beneath it is some hay. They love it under there!!!

 

[TwoCrows]

Yes, quail LOVE brush piles. They are natural ground dwellers and in the wild would spend much of their day under some branches.

 

[Tayten B]

TwoCrows you're right the hens where just probably handle to much I have ten of them expect my male like to sit on eggs more than females sadly I have to find forever home for them because I have too many males if you want another male just let me know they where raised in the house and have imprinted on people adn they don't like to fly I don't know how big you pen is but mine live in a 20 by 16 aviary with a 4 by 5 in door heated house so unless i find enough hens I and trying to find homes for them where they will not be buthered,use for dog training, and or hunted.