Quail

Quail

When you think of backyard poultry and coops, chickens are probably what comes to mind, but they aren’t the only birds worth your attention. Small, quiet and surprisingly productive, quail are becoming more common in mixed flocks for farm operations, homesteaders and backyard hobbyists. Shop these birds at Tractor Supply to diversify your egg baskets from season to season.

Great Additions to Your Backyard Flock

Often overlooked in favor of larger birds, quails are a rewarding addition to new or existing backyard coops. When shopping quail from our selection of poultry, you will benefit in the following ways:

Space-Efficient Flock Members

Dissimilar to other types of poultry, quail are capable of thriving in small spaces. They are much smaller in stature and don’t need a large run or yard, making them ideal for keepers with small-scale setups.

Quiet-Natured Birds

Some poultry, particularly chickens, can be noisy. Hens, especially when laying eggs, can make a variety of sounds, while roosters are known for being even more vocal, especially at dawn. Quail, on the other hand, with their calm and docile nature, are much quieter birds, producing soft cooing noises.

While quail are known to be less vocal compared to other types of birds, they are not complexly silent, as they will still produce sounds when startled or feeling threatened. Males will also become vocal during breeding season or when competing with other males, but these vocalizations are often brief.

Fast Maturity and High Production Rates

Quail mature quickly, meaning they start laying at an early age, typically as early as six to eight weeks old. In addition to early production, they produce a high number of eggs per year, reaching upwards of 300 eggs, providing you with a steady supply for personal consumption or sale.

Nutritious Eggs and Meat

In addition to laying a high volume, quails produce eggs that pack a nutritional punch. Even though they are smaller, their eggs contain more protein, vitamins and minerals by weight than chicken eggs. Quail are also known for their meat production, providing you with tender, flavorful meat that is often considered a delicacy in many cuisines.

Easy to Care for and Low Maintenance

Quail are generally considered a hardy breed of poultry, as they can thrive in various environments, including cold climates. Their hardiness combined with their ability to live with limited space makes them relatively easy to raise, even for beginner keepers. Also, quails consume less feed and usually don’t require as much daily care as other types of poultry.

Frequently Asked Questions About Quail

Can quail live with chickens?

It’s generally not recommended to keep quail and chickens together due to the risk of chickens killing or severely injuring the quail. Chickens are known to be aggressive and opportunistic eaters, and they will often target smaller birds. Quail are better off in their own separate, secure enclosure where their needs can be met without competition or conflict.

Can quail be free-ranged?

While it's possible to free-range quail, it’s not suggested. Once they are out of their cage, they typically don’t return, and they are vulnerable to predators. Therefore, it’s best to keep them in their enclosure.

Find Quail at Tractor Supply

Adding quail to your homestead or backyard flock is a rewarding step toward greater sustainability and living Life Out Here. Whether you’re an experienced keeper or just beginning your poultry journey, we have the tools and equipment needed to create a happy and thriving flock. Shop live birds, including quail, as well as essential supplies, at your local Tractor Supply store or here on our website.