Raising Bob White quail

[poultry for me]

I have a few questions regarding Bob Whites.
Are they difficult to raise?
Are they good for meat?
Can I keep them in wire cages off the ground (i.e. rabbit cages)?
How long does it take for them to become mature and lay eggs?
Can they withstand single digit weather in winter?
Will they need a light for warmth 24/7 in the winter in order to lay eggs?
What type of food do they eat as chicks and as adults?

These are only some of my questions. I know its a lot, and I know I have more but I just want the basics right now.

 

[gamebirdsonly]

As far as difficult raising harder then cortunix but easier then Gamble or valley.

They do taste good but there's not much meat.

Yes you can keep on wire usually that is the preferred method.

Bobwhites take about 5 to 6 months to mature.

They can but it might be good Idea to put light for heat if it gets real cold.

Bobwhites are seasonal bird laying usually spring through summer so if you want them to lay in winter your going need put a light on them.

Food I used either a gamebird starter or I used turkey grower and starter

 

[poultry for me]

Thank you. It sounds like they can be a go for me.

I just want to clarify one thing. You said to put a light on them if i want them to lay year round. Should it be just a light (like 60-100 watt) or should it be a heat lamp (250 watt)?

Again, thank you. I can't wait to add some more variety to my bird farm!

 

[TwoCrows]

I have a few questions regarding Bob Whites.
Are they difficult to raise? They are a bit "MORE" than Coturnix, but are enjoyable to keep. They do require more work during breeding season.
Are they good for meat? They are great tasting!
Can I keep them in wire cages off the ground (i.e. rabbit cages)? You can keep them in aviaries on the ground, rabbit hutches or small cages. 4 sq. ft. per bird.
How long does it take for them to become mature and lay eggs? About 6 months.
Can they withstand single digit weather in winter? Yes. Mine lived thru -30 last winter. Unless it gets below ZERO, they do not need additional heat, but they will need some sort of shelter other than the cage they are in.
Will they need a light for warmth 24/7 in the winter in order to lay eggs? Bobs are seasonal layers and do not lay during the winter. You can force them to lay, however it is not recommended to force them to lay continuously and you should give them a break.
What type of food do they eat as chicks and as adults? Gamebird food, veggies, fruits, seeds, etc...

These are only some of my questions. I know its a lot, and I know I have more but I just want the basics right now.