Have you ever thought about raising quails in your backyard? If not, you’re in for a delightful surprise! I know I’ve sure learned a lot over the past year with my quails. These small, charming birds are not only easy to care for but also provide a bounty of benefits, from delicious eggs to natural pest control. We’re going to explore how you can successfully raise quails in your own backyard and start your very own “urban” homestead.

Why Quails?

First, let’s talk about why quails are such a fantastic choice for backyard livestock:

1. Compact Size: Quails are small and don’t require much space, making them perfect for urban settings.
2. Productive Layers: They are amazing egg layers, most hens will lay up to 300 eggs per laying season.
3. Low Maintenance: Quails are hardy birds and relatively easy to care for. They can handle low temperatures and hot temperatures. I just make sure to block them from the wind in the winter and give them extra bedding, provide shade for cooling down in the summer.
4. Delicious Meat and Eggs: Quail eggs and meat are considered delicacies in many cuisines around the world. They are also loaded with essential fatty acids and vital nutrients for optimal health. The best part, since you raise your birds, you know exactly what they are eating.

Fun Fact: Quail eggs contain more vitamins and nutrients than a chicken egg. Just one serving of 4 quail eggs will give you the total amount of choline that you need in a day. Choline is used by the body to make cell membranes. Additionally, our nervous systems need choline to regulate mood, memory, and proper muscle function.

Getting Started with Quails

Raising quails begins with a few essential steps:

Choosing the Breed

• Coturnix Quail: Also known as Japanese quail (this is the breed I have), these are the most common breed to have in an urban setting. They are known for their egg-laying prowess and fast growth rate.

Setting Up the Living Space

• Housing: Quails need a safe, predator-proof home. A small coop or cage works well, ensuring it’s secure from predators like raccoons and cats. We personally house our quail in a hutch with a ramp and it has worked incredibly well for the last year and a half that we have had our quails. You can check it out here, in the future, I’d love to look into increasing the size and getting something like this one pictured here. https://amzn.to/3YATh4u

• Space Requirements: Each quail needs about 1 square foot of space or more, really the more space you have, the happier your quail will be. If you’re raising them in a cage, ensure it has a solid bottom to protect their feet. You will see that many quail keepers tend to house them in cages with wire bottoms, this isn’t ideal for the well-being of the birds long term. I have my quails in a two-level hutch with a ramp.
• Bedding: Use wood shavings or straw for bedding. It keeps the area clean and provides a comfortable resting place. A couple other options that I have heard of working well as a great substrate for your quails are sand, and soil. I have found the straw and aspen shavings the most cost-effective for changing out easily, and it’s easy to clean up anything they kick out of the hutch.
• Feeding Your Quails
  • Balanced Diet: Quails need a diet high in protein. Game bird feed is ideal, as it contains the necessary nutrients. Supplement with fresh greens, insects, and the occasional treat like mealworms.
  • Water: Fresh, clean water should be available at all times. Use a waterer designed for small birds to prevent spills.
• Caring for Your Quails
  • Daily Routine: Check their food and water daily. Clean the coop regularly to maintain hygiene and prevent diseases.
  • Health Checks: Keep an eye out for signs of illness such as lethargy, changes in eating habits, or abnormal droppings. Regular health checks help catch any issues early to assist in allowing your to nurse your quails back to health.

The Joys of Raising Quails

1. Egg Collection: One of the most rewarding aspects of raising quails for me is collecting fresh quail eggs everyday. These speckled beauties are not only super cute but are also packed with nutrients. Their high protein content makes them a hit in the kitchen. They are also amazing treats for your dogs.
2. Natural Pest Control: Quails love to forage for bugs, helping to keep your garden free from pests. Watching them peck around your garden is both entertaining and beneficial. Since quails generally don’t like to fly, you should be safe letting them roam. They are a little hard to catch as they are quick though.
3. Sustainable Living: Raising quails contributes to a more self-sufficient lifestyle. Whether you live in a city or a suburb, having a steady supply of eggs and possibly meat can reduce your reliance on store-bought goods.

Raising quails in your backyard is a fulfilling and joyful experience. These little birds bring a touch of the farm to urban living, providing fresh eggs, natural pest control, and endless entertainment. Plus, they’re a great way to start your journey into sustainable living. So, why not give it a try? Get ready to welcome these delightful creatures into your backyard and enjoy the many benefits they bring.

Have you raised quails before? What are your tips and experiences? Share your thoughts and join the conversation – we’d love to hear from you!

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