How to Feed Quail Hatchlings

Like other poultry chicks, quail chicks need a diet that is slightly different from their parents. Newly hatched quail need fine, high protein feed to get them off to a good start in life. Starter foods for quail are widely available from agricultural supply stores. Quail hatchlings also do well on foods intended for other species, such as turkeys or chickens, provided the food has the right balance of nutrients.

Things You'll Need

  • Chick feeder
  • Shallow dishes
  • Quail starter food
  • Fresh produce
  • Poultry grits
  • Quail pellets
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place a chick feeder or a heavy shallow dish in the quail enclosure. The dish should be no more than two inches deep.

    • 2

      Fill the feeder with quail starter feed. A turkey or chick starter food that contains at least 20 percent protein is also suitable.

    • 3

      Supplement the starter feed with finely chopped fruits and vegetables such as apples and dark lettuces.

    • 4

      Provide grits in a separate dish.

    • 5

      Once the quail are four weeks old, feed them a regular diet of quail pellets. Until they are two months old, the food should have a fine crumble texture. Later, you can provide a more coarsely textured food. Crumble adult quail pellets between your fingers if you do not wish to purchase a separate food supply for the juvenile quail.