Quail layer feed question??

[davedavey]

I use Purina Layena complete ration. It has a crude protein of 20%. Is that high enough or do I need to add a little grower with 30% protein?? My quail do seem to do a lot of feather picking on certain birds. I read that can be caused by low protein. Just wondering my cages are 30"x30" for breeding quads. Dave

 

[TwoCrows]

That is a bit low for long term or heavy laying. They can get away with it during the winter months if you are not forcing them to lay. In other words, if they are resting over the winter, their need for protein is low and you can usually get away with it. But come egg laying season, you will need to provide them with more protein. Minimum is 24% and as high as 28%. You can add some grower if you have it. There are protein supplements you can add to the feed to up the protein. There are things like bone meal or feather meal, fish meal, other things you can add.

You can also feed Turkey starter or feed. This is usually up around 26% protein.

Feather picking and eating is generally caused by a need for protein.

 

[sniper338]

I use the green bag from purina... has more protein in it than the layena... works for me.

 

[davedavey]

Thanks!!