new to quail

[ladylynch]

I have bobwhites. They started laying but won't sit on the eggs. They r laying in the nesting box. I use shredded paper for shavings. But they won't sit on them. How can I get the mommas to sit? Plz help

 

[HunterH]

I have bobwhites. They started laying but won't sit on the eggs. They r laying in the nesting box. I use shredded paper for shavings. But they won't sit on them. How can I get the mommas to sit? Plz help

I'm no expert by far but researched bobwhites a bit before buying coturnix eggs...from what I've read they don't go broody often and you can't make them... Time for an incubator.

 

[BobDBirdDog]

HunterH is accurate in his comment. Captive Pen Raised Bob's rarely sit the nest "broody". They may do so for about an hour or two but don't get your hopes up. Wiled Bob's will broody as that is their survival of species thing. Build or buy you an incubator if you want to hatch them, but be aware you may need a permit to do so so check with your state wildlife and agriculture offices if you want to be lagit....otherwise...well that's your call. lol


Other than that, teaching them to sit the nest would mean you need a chicken or some other to hatch the eggs broody style for about 2 generations "or more" as something like inheritance or mimic of behaviors would seem prudent as the best teacher to bring back the instinct.

That is a gamble as well if it will work.