Game birds — turkeys, pheasants, quail, and guineas — have higher protein requirements than chickens and need species-appropriate feed to thrive. At Bloomington Farm & Feed, we carry game bird feeds formulated for the specific nutritional demands of these birds at every life stage, available for next-day local delivery throughout the Twin Cities metro.
Whether you're raising turkeys for the table, pheasants for release, quail for eggs, or guineas for pest control, the right feed makes all the difference in growth rate, feather quality, and overall flock health.
Game Bird Feed FAQs
Can game birds eat regular chicken feed?
Not as a primary diet. Game birds — especially turkeys, pheasants, and quail — require significantly more protein than chickens, particularly in the starter phase. Turkey and game bird starters typically run 28–30% protein, compared to 20–24% for chick starter. Feeding game birds standard chicken feed can result in slow growth, poor feathering, and health issues.
What protein level do game birds need?
Protein needs vary by species and life stage. Turkey poults and pheasant chicks need 28–30% protein as starters. Quail starters need around 24–28%. As birds mature, protein requirements drop — grower and finisher feeds typically run 20–22%. Always match the feed to the species and age of your birds.
What do turkeys eat?
Turkey poults need a high-protein game bird starter (28–30%) for the first 8 weeks, followed by a grower feed through market weight or breeding age. Breeding turkeys benefit from a maintenance feed with added vitamins and minerals. Turkeys also love to forage — pasture access supplements their diet naturally and reduces feed costs.
What should I feed quail?
Coturnix quail are fast-maturing and need a high-protein starter (24–28%) for the first 6 weeks. Laying quail benefit from a feed with added calcium for strong eggshell production. Quail are small but eat frequently — keep feeders stocked and use small-opening feeders to minimize waste.
How much do game birds eat per day?
Feed consumption varies widely by species and size. Quail eat roughly 14–20 grams per day. Pheasants consume about ¼ pound. Turkeys can eat ½ pound or more at market weight. All game birds benefit from free-choice feeding — keeping feeders full at all times — especially during the high-growth starter phase.
Read more from our Flock Blog:
→ Feeding Game Birds: A Complete Nutrition Guide for Turkeys, Pheasants, Quail & Guineas
→ How Much Do Chickens, Game Birds & Ducks Eat Per Day
→ 5 Signs Your Flock Lacks Protein
→ Spring Brooding Guide for Game Bird Chicks in the Twin Cities
