Quail keeping can be a rewarding and enjoyable hobby for those interested in raising small, feathered creatures. Quails are relatively easy to care for and have a small footprint, making them suitable for even those with limited space. In this comprehensive quail keeping guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know about raising quails, including how to set up a suitable habitat, what to feed your quails, and how to breed and raise healthy chicks.
Before you start your quail-keeping journey, it’s important to do some research and ensure that it is legal to keep quails in your area. Some areas have laws or ordinances that prohibit the keeping of certain types of birds, so it’s always best to check with your local authorities before bringing quails home.
Once you’ve determined that it is legal to keep quails in your area, you’ll need to decide which type of quail you’d like to raise. There are several different breeds of quail available, each with its own unique characteristics. Some popular options include Coturnix quail, which are known for their egg production and small size, and Bobwhite quail, which are a popular game bird.
Next, you’ll need to set up a suitable habitat for your quails. Quails are social birds and do well in groups, so it’s best to keep at least three or four together. A suitable habitat for quails should have plenty of room for them to move around, as well as a secure enclosure to protect them from predators.
One option for housing quails is to use a chicken coop or chicken tractor. These structures provide a secure, enclosed space for quails to roost and lay eggs. You can also use a hutch, which is a smaller, portable enclosure that can be placed in a garden or on a patio. Quails do well in wire or mesh enclosures, as they have good ventilation and allow the birds to see their surroundings.
In terms of size, a good rule of thumb is to provide at least 4 square feet of space per quail. This will give them enough room to move around and stretch their wings. You’ll also want to make sure that the enclosure has plenty of bedding, such as straw or wood shavings, to keep the quails comfortable and dry. It’s also important to provide plenty of hiding spots, such as boxes or tubes, for the quails to retreat to if they feel threatened.
Quails are omnivorous and will eat a variety of foods, including seeds, grains, and vegetables. It’s important to provide a balanced diet for your quails to ensure they get all the nutrients they need. A commercial quail feed, which can be found at many farm supply stores, is a good option and will provide all the necessary nutrients. You can also supplement their diet with fresh greens, such as lettuce and spinach, as well as fruits and vegetables.
In addition to their regular feed, quails also need access to a source of calcium, such as crushed oyster shells or cuttlebone. This is important for the development of strong eggshells. Quails also need access to clean, fresh water at all times.