Quail breed guide
Coturnix, bobwhite, and button quail: housing, feed, and fast breeding cycles.
History & origins
- Coturnix (Japanese) quail were domesticated in Japan by the 12th century, first as songbirds and later as laying stock.
- Bobwhite quail are a native North American species raised for release, dog training, and meat.
Care & housing
- Feed a 24-30% protein game bird ration — layer feed is far too low in protein for quail.
- Allow 1 sq ft per Coturnix in cages, with solid low ceilings or soft netting since startled quail flush straight up.
- Keep dust baths available and bedding dry to control mites and ammonia.
Breeding tips
- Coturnix lay by 6-8 weeks and hatch in 17-18 days — the fastest breeding cycle in poultry.
- Run 1 male to 3-5 females; more males means bald, injured hens.
- Bobwhites need 23-24 days and often require a covey-style pen and cover to breed calmly.