Quail Farming

Quail farming refers to the breeding, rearing, and management of quails—small ground-dwelling birds belonging to the pheasant family (Phasianidae)—for the production of meat, eggs, and other commercial products. In recent years, it has emerged as a profitable and sustainable enterprise in the poultry sector, particularly in countries like India, Japan, China, and the United States, owing to quails’ fast growth rate, low feed requirements, and early maturity.

Characteristics of Quails

Quails are hardy, small-sized birds known for their adaptability to varied climatic conditions. There are about 130 species of quail globally, but only a few are domesticated for farming purposes. The most commonly reared species are:

• Japanese Quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) – the most popular for commercial farming, known for high egg production and rapid growth.
• Bobwhite Quail (Colinus virginianus) – primarily raised for meat and game purposes.
• Chinese Painted Quail (Coturnix chinensis) – smaller and often kept as ornamental birds.

Adult quails typically weigh between 150 and 200 grams and begin laying eggs at about 6–7 weeks of age, producing up to 250–300 eggs annually under optimal conditions.

Advantages of Quail Farming

Quail farming offers several economic and practical benefits, making it suitable for both small-scale and commercial enterprises:

1. Low investment: The small body size and low feed intake reduce initial and operating costs.
2. Quick returns: Quails mature and start laying eggs within 6 weeks, providing rapid income cycles.
3. High productivity: Quail hens lay more eggs in proportion to their body weight compared to chickens.
4. Space efficiency: Quails can be raised in compact cages or enclosures, requiring less floor area than chickens.
5. Resistance to disease: Quails are relatively hardy and less susceptible to many avian diseases.
6. Nutritional value: Quail meat and eggs are rich in protein, iron, and vitamins, and are considered a healthy alternative to chicken products.
7. Employment generation: Quail farming offers livelihood opportunities for rural and peri-urban communities.

Housing and Management

Proper housing and management are crucial for maintaining bird health and productivity.

1. Housing

• Quails can be raised in cages made of wire or wood, arranged in tiers to maximise space.
• Each adult quail requires about 200 cm² of floor space.
• The shed should be well-ventilated, dry, and protected from predators.
• Temperature between 20°C and 25°C is ideal for growth and egg production.

2. Brooding (Chick Management)

• Newly hatched chicks require controlled heat (around 35°C) during their first week.
• Heat is gradually reduced as chicks grow.
• Clean water and balanced feed should be available at all times.

3. Feeding

• Quails consume about 20–25 grams of feed per day.
• The diet must be rich in protein (around 24–26% for chicks, 20% for adults).
• A balanced mix of grains, soybean meal, vitamins, minerals, and grit ensures good growth and egg production.

4. Lighting

• About 14–16 hours of light daily is required for optimal egg laying.
• Artificial lighting can be used to maintain productivity throughout the year.

5. Watering and Sanitation

• Clean water should always be available, changed daily.
• Regular cleaning and disinfection of cages prevent disease outbreaks.

Breeding and Egg Production

Quails are prolific breeders and begin laying eggs as early as 45–50 days of age. A male-to-female ratio of 1:3 or 1:4 is ideal for breeding. Fertile eggs hatch within 16–18 days in an incubator maintained at 37.5°C with humidity around 60–70%.

• Egg characteristics: Small and mottled, weighing about 10–12 grams each.
• Production cycle: A good layer can produce 250–300 eggs annually for up to 12 months.
• Replacement: Layers are usually replaced every 12–15 months to maintain high productivity.

Meat Production

Quails attain marketable weight within 5–6 weeks, making them suitable for short production cycles. Their meat is tender, low in fat, and high in protein, often preferred for dietary and gourmet purposes.

• Average body weight at marketing: 150–180 grams.
• Feed conversion ratio (FCR): Around 2.5:1, meaning 2.5 kg of feed produces 1 kg of body weight.
• Slaughter yield: Approximately 70% of live weight.

Diseases and Health Management

Although quails are relatively disease-resistant, they can be affected by some common poultry diseases:

• Coccidiosis – causes diarrhoea; controlled through anticoccidial drugs.
• Newcastle disease – prevented by vaccination.
• Enteritis and respiratory infections – prevented through good hygiene and ventilation.

Biosecurity measures, including disinfection, controlled access, and proper waste disposal, are essential to maintain flock health.

Economic Considerations

The economics of quail farming depend on scale, management efficiency, and market access.

• Initial investment: Mainly for housing, breeding stock, and equipment.
• Operational costs: Feed accounts for the largest share (about 60–70%).
• Returns: With proper management, farmers can expect good profit margins due to high productivity and steady demand for quail products.

Small-scale units with 500–1000 birds can generate sustainable income, while large farms benefit from economies of scale.

Marketing and Demand

Quail meat and eggs are gaining popularity in urban markets due to their high nutritional value and delicacy status. Marketing channels include:

• Direct sales to consumers, restaurants, and hotels.
• Local markets and retail outlets.
• Supply to food processing units for value-added products such as pickled eggs and smoked meat.

Consumer awareness and organised marketing are essential to expand demand and stabilise prices.

Government Support and Training

In India and several other countries, government agencies and agricultural universities promote quail farming through training programmes, subsidies, and credit schemes. Institutions such as the Central Avian Research Institute (CARI), Izatnagar, and various Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) provide technical support on breeding, feeding, and disease management.

Environmental and Sustainability Aspects

Quail farming is considered environmentally sustainable because it:

• Requires minimal land and feed resources.
• Produces less waste compared to large poultry operations.
• Can be integrated with other agricultural enterprises, such as mixed farming systems.