New to raising quail and want to know the in's and out's

[tmart82692]

Hi BYC I just picked up a trio of coturnix quail over the weekend and I'm planning to start incubating some eggs. I assume that they are adjusting to the new surroundings because they haven't layed any eggs but in the meantime I've been doing research on incubating and general information about raising them but I haven't been very successful. I was just wanting to compile a bunch of information tips tricks and ins and outs of everything to do with them any and all info/ websites for info would be greatly appreciated. Also a question to go along with this. I have them in a 5'x3' wire cage and was curious about what kind of bedding I should use I have straw in there now but it seems like they don't like it very well.

 

[mdees88]

https://www.backyardchickens.com/th...asics-information-and-pictures-galore.102281/

Pine shavings for bedding. Add pan of sand for dust bath.
They take weeks after moving before they will lay (up to a month).

 

[tmart82692]

Also I'm usually gone for 8 hrs + a day for work so if the hens lay an egg while im gone will it affect the embryo for being out for so long? Or is there a outdoor temp range that will keep it viable for hatch?

 

[mdees88]

My quail lay between 2-6pm. From what I've read it's pretty common for them to lay in the afternoon, especially if you keep them outside where there is a natural sunrise/sunset. I don't think you'll have much of problem but can't be certain.