Keeping & Breeding Quail for Self-Sufficiency in Australia

Raising quail for self-sufficiency can be a highly rewarding practice, whether you are looking to produce eggs, meat, or even feathers for various uses. Quail are well-suited to small-scale farming or homesteading, requiring relatively little space and making them ideal for both suburban and rural settings across Australia. With their low feed requirements, high egg production, and the ability to thrive in a variety of climates, quails are a versatile and efficient poultry option for those seeking to increase their self-sufficiency.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about raising quail on your property—from choosing the right breed to managing shelter, food, and water needs. Whether you are aiming for personal consumption or a small commercial operation, this comprehensive overview will provide the essential insights needed to get started.

Types of Quails and Their Uses in Australia

In Australia, quail farming has become increasingly popular due to the growing demand for quail eggs and meat. Different types of quails serve different purposes, and selecting the right breed is essential based on your needs.

Common Types of Quails in Australia:

1. Japanese Coturnix Quail
   This is the most popular breed for egg production. They are prolific layers and can produce up to 300 eggs per year. Japanese Coturnix quail are fast-growing and hardy, making them an excellent choice for both egg and meat production. Their eggs are small but highly nutritious, and their meat is considered tender and flavorful.
2. Bobwhite Quail
   Bobwhite quail are typically raised for meat production. They are larger than Japanese Coturnix quail and are known for their tender meat. However, they do require slightly more space and attention, especially as they are more sensitive to temperature fluctuations.
3. Texas A&M Quail
   A hybrid breed developed for both meat and egg production, Texas A&M quails are hardy and provide a good return on investment for both egg and meat production. They are also known for being relatively docile and easy to handle, making them an excellent choice for beginners.
4. King Quail (also known as Button Quail)
   King quails are smaller than the Japanese Coturnix and are often kept for ornamental purposes due to their attractive plumage. They also produce eggs but are not as prolific as the larger breeds. They are ideal for people who want to keep quails in small spaces or as a hobby.

Reasons for Breeding Quail in Australia

Raising quail on your homestead or farm can be highly beneficial for several reasons, particularly when it comes to self-sufficiency.

Quail Eggs

Quail eggs are highly nutritious, often considered a delicacy in many cultures. They are richer in protein, iron, and certain vitamins compared to chicken eggs. With Australians becoming more health-conscious, quail eggs are gaining popularity in gourmet cooking, as well as in the growing health food market. Their small size makes them ideal for both personal consumption and commercial purposes.

Quail Meat

Quail meat is lean, tender, and flavorful, making it a gourmet choice for many chefs and food enthusiasts. Due to their rapid growth and small size, quail are easy to process for meat production. Raising quail for meat can provide a consistent and renewable source of protein for your household or small business. The market for quail meat is expanding, particularly in fine dining and specialty food markets in Australia.

Pest Control

Quail are natural foragers, and they can help reduce the number of insects, slugs, and other pests in your garden or farm. As they wander through your property, they consume pests, potentially reducing the need for chemical pesticides. This makes quail an eco-friendly choice for natural pest control.

Feathers

While not as commercially viable as eggs or meat, quail feathers can be used for various crafts and decorative purposes. For those who enjoy DIY projects or artistic endeavours, collecting quail feathers can provide an additional source of material.

How to Farm and Breed Quail for Self-Sufficiency

Raising quail is relatively straightforward, but it does require attention to detail in terms of shelter, food, and care. Below are key considerations for getting started.

Shelter and Housing

Quail need safe, secure housing to protect them from predators and harsh weather conditions. A well-constructed shelter should provide adequate ventilation, lighting, and space for the quail to move comfortably.

• Cages and Pens: Quail can be raised in aviary-style cages or small pens. Each quail should have about 0.1 to 0.2 square meters of space, depending on the breed. The cages should be large enough to allow for easy movement and access to food and water. These cages should also have a wire mesh bottom to help prevent lice and other pests.
• Nesting Areas: For egg-laying quail, it’s essential to provide nesting boxes where the birds can lay their eggs in a safe and quiet environment. The nesting boxes should be clean, dry, and filled with soft bedding material such as straw or wood shavings.
• Protection from Predators: Depending on your location in Australia, you may need to provide extra protection from predators like foxes, snakes, and birds of prey. Use sturdy wire mesh and secure fencing around the quail pens to keep them safe.

Temperature Control

Quail are hardy birds, but they can be sensitive to extreme temperatures. In Australia, where the climate can range from tropical to arid, ensuring proper temperature control is crucial.

• In Hot Climates: If you live in hotter regions such as Queensland or parts of Western Australia, ensure that the quail pens are well-ventilated and offer shade during the hottest part of the day. Misting systems or fans can help cool the environment during summer months.
• In Cooler Regions: For colder climates like Tasmania or the Australian Alps, quail may need extra shelter from the cold and wind. Use insulation in the shelters and ensure that the quail have access to heat during the colder months.

Feeding and Watering Your Quail

Providing a balanced diet is essential to ensure the health and productivity of your quail. Fortunately, quail have relatively simple feeding needs.

Quail Feed

Quail can be fed a high-protein poultry feed designed for game birds or quail. Commercial feed is widely available in Australia and is specially formulated to meet the nutritional requirements of quail. The protein content should be about 20–24%, depending on the quail’s age and purpose (e.g., meat production or egg-laying). Here’s what you need to consider:

• Chicks: When raising quail from chicks, they need a high-protein starter feed until they are about six weeks old. After that, you can switch to a maintenance feed.
• Adults: For adult quail, feed them a balanced diet with a mix of grains, seeds, and protein-rich supplements like insects or mealworms.

Water

Quail need access to fresh, clean water at all times. It’s essential to provide water in shallow dishes or waterers to prevent drowning, as quail are small and fragile. Regularly clean and refill the water containers, especially in warmer weather, to keep the water fresh and prevent contamination.

Quail Egg Production and Incubation

If you’re raising quail primarily for egg production, understanding how to encourage optimal egg-laying is crucial. Quail typically start laying eggs when they are around 6–8 weeks old, depending on the breed.

Egg Collection

Quail eggs should be collected daily to prevent them from becoming dirty or damaged. Ensure that the nesting boxes are kept clean and comfortable for the birds to lay in.

Incubation

If you plan to breed quail, you can incubate the eggs in an automatic or manual incubator. Quail eggs have a shorter incubation period than chicken eggs, usually taking about 17–18 days. Ensure that the temperature is kept at around 37.5°C (99.5°F) and humidity is maintained at around 60%.

Managing Quail Health and Preventing Diseases

Ensuring the health of your quail is essential to maintain a productive and sustainable flock. Quail, like all animals, can be prone to various diseases, but with proper management, many of these can be prevented or minimised.

Common Quail Health Issues

1. Coccidiosis
   This is a common parasitic infection that affects quail, especially in crowded or unsanitary conditions. It’s important to keep their living environment clean and dry to prevent the build-up of harmful bacteria and parasites. If you notice symptoms like diarrhea, lethargy, or weight loss, it’s important to treat the quail immediately with coccidiostat medication.
2. Respiratory Infections
   Quail can suffer from respiratory infections, which often present as sneezing, wheezing, or nasal discharge. Proper ventilation in their housing can reduce the risk of respiratory problems, and providing adequate space helps minimize stress, which can weaken their immune systems.
3. Egg Binding
   Female quail can sometimes suffer from egg binding, where they have difficulty laying eggs. This can be caused by nutritional deficiencies, poor housing conditions, or stress. Ensure that your quail are eating a balanced diet, are well-hydrated, and have a proper environment to reduce the risk of egg binding.

Preventative Measures

• Good Hygiene: Regularly clean the quail pens and nesting boxes. Disinfect the cages periodically to prevent the spread of bacteria and other pathogens.
• Regular Health Checks: Inspect your quail regularly for signs of illness or distress. Ensure their eyes are clear, feathers are clean, and they are moving around freely.
• Vitamins and Supplements: Adding vitamins and minerals, particularly calcium for females, can improve egg-laying and overall health. Calcium helps prevent egg-binding and promotes strong bones.
• Proper Stress Management: Quail are sensitive to stress, so avoid overcrowding and ensure they have a peaceful environment. Reduce sudden loud noises, and handle them gently when needed.

Managing Quail Breeding for Sustainability

Breeding quail can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning to maintain a healthy flock and ensure sustainability. Whether you’re breeding for meat, eggs, or ornamental purposes, understanding how to manage the breeding process will contribute to long-term success.

Choosing Breeding Pairs

When breeding quail, select healthy, strong individuals to ensure that the offspring will thrive. Look for quail that exhibit desirable traits such as high egg production or fast growth. It’s important to pair a rooster with several hens, as this will increase the likelihood of successful fertilisation.

Breeding Systems

There are two main breeding systems you can use when raising quail:

1. Free Breeding: Allow the quail to mate naturally within the flock. This method can work well if you have a large, healthy group, but it may not always yield the most efficient results.
2. Controlled Breeding: Select specific male and female quail to breed, ensuring you are pairing the best birds to produce offspring with desirable traits.

Incubation and Hatching

As mentioned earlier, quail eggs can be incubated using an automatic or manual incubator. It’s important to maintain stable temperature and humidity levels during the incubation period. Once the eggs hatch, provide the chicks with proper care, warmth, and nutrition.

Costs Associated with Breeding Quail in Australia

Starting a quail farm or homestead operation comes with certain expenses, though it’s often more affordable than raising larger poultry like chickens. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated costs associated with raising quail in Australia.

Initial Set Up Costs

1. Housing and Cages:
   Depending on the scale of your operation, you may need to invest in custom-built or pre-fabricated cages and pens. A small setup for 20-30 quail can cost anywhere from $100 to $500 for cages and shelters, depending on the materials used.
2. Incubator:
   If you plan to incubate your own eggs, purchasing a quality incubator is essential. Prices range from around $100 for a small, manual incubator to upwards of $500 for larger, automatic models.
3. Feed and Water Equipment:
   You will need feeders and waterers, which can cost approximately $50 to $100 for a small flock. Keep in mind that automatic waterers and feeders may add to the cost but reduce the time spent on maintenance.
4. Initial Stock:
   Buying quail to start your flock will be one of your major expenses. Prices for chicks typically range from $2 to $4 per bird, depending on the breed. Adult quail cost more, but purchasing young birds can be more economical.

Ongoing Costs

1. Feed:
   Quail feed typically costs between $30 to $50 per 20kg bag, depending on the brand and formulation. Feed costs will vary based on the size of your flock, with larger operations incurring higher costs. Expect to feed approximately 20–30g of feed per quail daily.
2. Healthcare and Supplements:
   While quail are generally low-maintenance, you may need to budget for occasional health treatments, including vitamins and medications. Set aside $10–$20 per month for health-related expenses.
3. Electricity:
   If you are incubating eggs or using heating lamps for chicks, there may be additional electricity costs, particularly if you are maintaining temperature-controlled environments. These costs will vary depending on the climate in your region.

Potential Income from Quail Farming

Raising quail can be a profitable venture, especially if you sell eggs, meat, or both. In Australia, quail eggs can be sold for $10 to $15 per dozen, and quail meat can fetch $20 to $30 per kilogram, depending on market conditions. By maintaining a healthy flock and ensuring good management practices, quail farming can provide a steady stream of income.

Land Size and Space Requirements for Farming Quail

While quail are small birds, they still require sufficient space for a healthy and productive life. The amount of land you need depends on how many quail you plan to raise and whether you want to allow them to roam freely or keep them in controlled enclosures.

Space Per Bird

Generally, quail need about 0.1–0.2 square meters of space per bird. In larger setups, such as a commercial quail farm, quail are typically raised in stacked cages to save space. However, for a homestead operation, you may want to provide each bird with additional room to encourage natural behaviours and reduce stress.

Outdoor Space for Foraging

If you plan to allow your quail to roam outdoors, you will need to provide an enclosed area where they can forage and exercise. While quail don’t require as much space as chickens, a small aviary or chicken run will help maintain their health and well-being.

Sustainable Practices for Farming Quail

To maintain sustainability, it’s important to focus on the long-term health of your quail flock and the surrounding environment. Below are some ways to make your quail farming more sustainable:

• Composting Waste: Quail produce droppings that can be composted and used as fertilizer for your garden. This reduces waste and helps create a more sustainable farming system.
• Water Conservation: Implement water-saving systems, such as drip irrigation, for your quail and garden. This helps reduce water consumption while ensuring your quail have enough to drink.
• Local Feed Sourcing: Whenever possible, source feed from local suppliers to reduce your carbon footprint and support local businesses.

Keen to start your journey farming quail in Australia? Have a read of our detailed guide on how to get started quail farming for beginners.