How to Raise a Baby Quail

Quails are birds that have been gaining popularity as pets. However, raising a baby quail can be quite challenging. A baby quail is not only fragile and helpless but also needs constant warmth that its mother usually provides. A baby quail needs a high-protein diet and a comfortable home. On the other hand, if you have the time and energy, raising a baby quail can be an unforgettable learning experience.

Things You'll Need

  • baby quail
  • brooder
  • red clay brick
  • quail starter feed
  • 100-watt heat lamp
  • nonskid matting
  • "Dry Stall" mix
  • shallow jar lid
  • aquarium stones
  • thermostat
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a commercial brooder or breathable covered tank with a 100-watt red or blue heat lamp and a thermostat installed to regulate temperature for your newborn quail.

    • 2

      Keep the temperature of the brooder 95 degrees Fahrenheit the first week and decrease the thermostat by 5 degrees each week until the brooder reaches a consistent 70 degrees, which is when you don't need the heat lamp anymore.

    • 3

      Put a red clay brick under the light in the brooder for the baby quail to warm up against.

    • 4

      Line the bottom of the brooder with nonskid matting for the first few days after your baby quail is born and then change it to Dry Stall, a mix of horse bedding and sand that can be found at feed stores to give your baby quail some traction for walking around.

    • 5

      Pour water in a shallow jar lid and place aquarium stones in it so the baby quail won't fall in but will be able to drink from around the stones. Refill it frequently.

    • 6

      Feed the baby quail starter quail feed from the pet store or grind up game bird starter feed in a coffee grinder for the baby quail. This is important because the starter feed has protein, vitamins and minerals.

    • 7

      Teach your baby quail to peck by sprinkling a bit of chick feed on the brooder bottom, and tapping the food with your fingertip. This is an instinctual survival skill for your baby quail.