How to Raise Coturnix Quail

Coturnix quail, or Japanese quail, have minimal space requirements and are friendlier than chickens. Commonly raised for eggs, Coturnix quail hens begin laying at seven weeks of age. Coturnix quail eggs range from white to dark brown with a variety of color patterns. Coturnix quail are more efficient egg-layers than chickens. The average weight of a Coturnix quail egg is one-third of an ounce, approximately eight percent of the quail hen's body weight. Chicken eggs are typically three percent of the chicken's body weight.

Things You'll Need

  • Coop
  • Water
  • Wild game bird feed or turkey feed
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine how many quail you would like to keep. To start, one male and three females is typically adequate.

    • 2

      Set up a coop for your quail. Each bird needs two square feet of space; if you have four birds, make sure the base of your coop is at least eight square feet. Avoid high ceilings, as quail fly straight up when scared and can gain enough speed to break their necks on the ceiling of a standard chicken coop.

    • 3

      Make sure your coop has an outer area. Coturnix quail like to take dust baths in hot weather.

    • 4

      Protect your Coturnix quail from predators. Make sure predators can't dig or burrow their way into the coop. Ensure the wire of your coop is small enough so the quail can't poke out their heads, exposing them to predators.

    • 5

      Purchase birds for your flock.

    • 6

      Provide a source of fresh, clean water.

    • 7

      Feed your quail wild game bird feed or turkey feed.

    • 8

      Check for eggs two to three times per day. Gather eggs daily.

    • 9

      Leave eggs with a brooding hen when you would like them to hatch. The incubation period is 17 days.

    • 10

      Feed quail chicks starter feed until they are six weeks old.