The Quail Owner's FAQ: Answers to the Most Common Questions

Whether you're raising quail for eggs, meat, or simply the joy of keeping them, these small birds come with big questions. Here's a roundup of what quail owners ask most — and the answers to help you raise a healthy, happy flock.

🥚 Eggs & Production

How many eggs do quail lay?

Coturnix quail are prolific layers, producing up to 250–300 eggs per year under good conditions. That's nearly one egg per day! Consistent lighting (14–16 hours of light daily) is key to keeping production steady.

When do quail start laying?

Coturnix quail mature fast — most hens begin laying at 6–8 weeks of age. Bobwhite and other breeds take longer, typically 16–24 weeks.

Why did my quail stop laying?

Common culprits include reduced daylight, stress, molting, poor nutrition, or age. Check your lighting schedule first, then evaluate feed quality and flock dynamics.

Looking for an easy way to open quail eggs? Check out our Quail Egg Scissors.

🌾 Feed & Nutrition

What should I feed my quail?

A high-protein game bird feed (24–28% protein) is ideal for laying hens and growing chicks. Avoid standard chicken layer feed — quail need more protein to thrive.

We carry several great options in our Heim's Game Bird Feed Lineup.

Can quail eat scratch or table scraps?

In moderation. Scratch grains are fine as an occasional treat but shouldn't replace a balanced feed. Leafy greens, mealworms, and small insects are great supplements.

We carry a variety of treats to keep your flock spoiled.

Do quail need grit?

Yes, if they don't have access to natural ground. Offer insoluble grit to aid digestion, and oyster shell separately for calcium if you have laying hens.

We carry:

• Baby Chick/Small Bird Grit, 10lbs — sized right for quail
  
• Calcium Provider with Oyster Shells, 10lbs — essential for strong eggshells

🏠 Housing & Space

How much space do quail need?

A general rule is 1 square foot per bird in a cage or 2–4 square feet in a floor pen. Overcrowding leads to stress, feather pecking, and disease — give them room to move.

Can quail live with chickens?

It's generally not recommended. Chickens can carry diseases (like Marek's) that devastate quail, and size differences create bullying risks. Keep flocks separate.

Do quail need a nesting box?

Most quail, especially Coturnix, don't use nesting boxes — they lay wherever they happen to be. Bobwhites may be more inclined to nest. Collect eggs daily to keep them clean.

🐣 Hatching & Brooding

What temperature do quail eggs need to hatch?

Incubate at 99.5°F with 45–55% humidity for the first 14 days, then raise humidity to 65–70% for lockdown (days 15–17 for Coturnix). Hatch day is typically day 17–18.

How long do quail chicks need a heat lamp?

Quail chicks need supplemental heat for about 3–4 weeks. Start at 95°F and reduce by 5°F each week until they're fully feathered and ambient temps are comfortable.

🩺 Health & Common Issues

Why are my quail losing feathers?

Feather loss can be caused by molting, overcrowding, nutritional deficiency, or feather pecking from flock mates. Evaluate protein levels and space first.

What diseases should I watch for?

Ulcerative enteritis ("quail disease"), coccidiosis, and respiratory infections are the most common. Biosecurity, clean water, and dry bedding go a long way in prevention.

How long do quail live?

Coturnix quail typically live 2–3 years, with peak egg production in the first year. With good care, some live longer.

💬 Have More Questions?

At Bloomington Farm & Feed, we're here to help you raise a thriving flock. Contact us with additional questions!