Quail chicks are covered in down feathers, which provide insulation and help them regulate their body temperature. They are able to walk, feed, and drink almost immediately after hatching. While the mother quail may still provide some care and protection, the chicks are not entirely dependent on her for warmth.
However, it is important to note that quail chicks are still vulnerable and require proper care and management. They should be kept in a draft-free environment with a heat source, such as a brooder or heat lamp, to maintain a suitable temperature for their growth and development.
While quail chicks do not necessarily need their mother for warmth, they do benefit from her guidance, protection, and socialization. The mother quail can teach her chicks how to find food, avoid predators, and interact with other quails. By observing and learning from their mother, quail chicks can develop the necessary skills to survive and thrive in their environment.