Can Quail Live With Chickens or Not? Raising Quail:

We’ve long touted the benefits of raising both quail and chickens to add protein to your homestead. Does that leave you wondering can quail live with chickens? Let’s see.

Can Quail Live With Chickens?

In a word: No. Quail and chickens are not good coopmates for these reasons:

1. They have differing shelter requirements.
2. They have different needs for their body movements.
3. Quail and chickens have different feed requirements.
4. Quail can contract diseases from chickens.
5. Chickens aren’t friendly to quail.
6. Quail eggs are quite tasty to chickens.
7. They have different mannerisms and personalities.
8. They require different management practices overall.

Let’s look at all of the reasons in more depth, and then you’ll find additional tips on raising quail on your own homestead.

Chicken Coop or Quail Coop

Chickens need 3 to 4 square feet per bird of coop space. They are happy doing their chicken thing as long as they have a roost, nest box, and a healthy amount of space.

Quail, on the other hand, require less cage space, but they enjoy flying about. If you were to put quail into your chicken coop, they’d fly right into the coop walls. They can be raised in much smaller spaces to keep them from injuring their little bodies in flight.

Different Feed

Laying hens need 17% protein chicken feed to maintain healthy body condition. Quail need 21% protein because they’re such fast growers. Moreover, quail metabolize energy much faster than chickens. Quail feed or wild game bird feed is usually sufficient.

You may wonder can quail live with chickens if you just feed them the higher percentage protein feed. You could, for a while. 

However, it’s going to get expensive quickly to continue feeding your chickens the more expensive feed. Additionally, a good layer feed will have added calcium for your chickens, while the game bird feeds for quail do not. You may need to supplement your hens with calcium such as oyster shell.

Also, if you choose a pelleted feed for your chickens, remember how much smaller those quail mouths are. They need a small crumble, mash, or chipped feed so they can swallow it.

Shared Diseases

Quail are incredibly fragile birds compared to chickens. They can be susceptible to several diseases when housed with or in proximity to chickens.

If fowl pox runs through your chicken flock, (and it will if you keep chickens long enough), they’ll likely fight it off without major complications.

If your quail catch fowl pox from those chickens, they’re much more likely to succumb to the illness.

Chickens and quail have different tolerances to pathogens, and certain diseases can be transferred between the two. Some common diseases that quail can catch from chickens include:

1. Newcastle Disease – Symptoms: Respiratory distress, paralysis, tremors, and sudden death.
2. Avian Influenza – Symptoms: Respiratory issues, reduced egg production, and high mortality.
3. Infectious Coryza – Symptoms: Swollen face, nasal discharge, difficulty breathing.
4. Mycoplasma Gallisepticum – Symptoms: Respiratory distress, nasal discharge, coughing, reduced egg production.
5. Fowl Cholera – Symptoms: Swelling, respiratory problems, and sudden death.
6. Salmonella – Symptoms: Diarrhea, lethargy, and sometimes sudden death.
7. Coccidiosis – Symptoms: Diarrhea (often bloody), lethargy, and poor growth.
8. Marek’s Disease – Symptoms: Paralysis, tumors, and high mortality rates.
9. Blackhead Disease – Symptoms: Lethargy, yellow droppings, and liver damage.

To reduce the risk of disease transmission, it’s best to avoid housing quail and chickens together and ensure proper sanitation and biosecurity.

Sanitation Issues

Chickens produce larger droppings than quail, which can create unsanitary conditions if they’re sharing the same space. Quail are susceptible to respiratory issues, and poor sanitation can lead to increased risk of illness.

Chickens Are Bullies

Chickens are larger and more aggressive than quail, which can lead to bullying if they are housed together in a shared coop. 

They tend to establish a pecking order, and little birds are often at the bottom of this hierarchy. This can result in chickens pecking at or chasing quail, preventing them from accessing food and water, and causing stress or injury. 

In some cases, chickens may even kill quail with their aggressive behavior. For these reasons, it’s a good idea to keep chickens and quail in separate enclosures to prevent bullying and ensure both species thrive.

Chickens Eat Quail Eggs

Chickens may eat quail eggs if given the opportunity. They can also develop a habit of egg-eating, especially if they discover a broken egg in the coop. Since quail eggs are smaller and more fragile than chicken eggs, they can be particularly vulnerable. 

Chickens may peck at quail eggs out of curiosity or in search of food, and once they realize the eggs are edible, they may continue the behavior. 

To prevent this, it’s important to provide proper nesting areas for both species, ideally keeping them separate.

Different Temperament and Behavior

Chickens are generally more robust and active, while quail tend to be more timid and skittish. The more dominant behavior of chickens can overwhelm quail, leading to constant stress.

Quail also tend to fly and flutter around more, especially in enclosed areas, and chickens could perceive this movement as a threat or something to attack.

General Quail Management and Best Practices

Here are additional tips for growing your own quail under the right conditions at home:

• If breeding, maintain a ratio of about 1 male to 4-5 females to ensure a good hatch rate of fertile eggs without excessive aggression between males.
• Collect eggs daily to prevent breakage or egg-eating by the quail.
• Provide additional heat for chicks during brooding, maintaining temperatures of around 95°F (35°C) and gradually reducing it as they grow.
• Adult quail can tolerate cooler temperatures but should be protected from extreme cold, drafts, and dampness.
• Regularly observe your quail for any signs of illness such as lethargy, coughing, sneezing, or changes in behavior.
• Provide a container with sand or dirt for dust bathing, which helps quail maintain feather health and control parasites.

Quail Cages and Space Requirements

Quail need about 1 square foot of space per bird in their cage space. Homesteaders can accomplish this in two different ways: on the ground, or lifted up.

Ensure the housing is well-ventilated to avoid the buildup of ammonia and maintain air quality. A simple rabbit hutch works really well if you want them lifted up off the ground. Keeping a hardware cloth floor is better than a solid floor so manure falls through the bottom for a cleaner cage.

Bedding is good to add during your coldest months. Use clean, dry bedding (such as straw, wood shavings, or sand) to keep the environment hygienic and comfortable.

If you choose to raise your quail at ground level, you’ll need to use a very tightly woven wire for the sides to keep snakes out. Make sure to include extra hardware cloth (or metal screening) to stake to the ground so the quail can’t scratch their way out. This will also help prevent predators from getting in.

Quail tractors can be much smaller than chicken tractors and still give your birds enough room. We are keeping quail in a tractor and it’s working well so far.

Ideally, give your quail separate spaces for older and younger birds if you’re going to keep raising them for meat. We like to keep a small quail brooder, a section for juvenile birds, and then our breeders/keepers.

As the juvenile birds reach full-sized, we bring them out to butcher, and move the babies from the brooder to the juvenile pen.

Say No to Free Range

Raising quail are quite different than raising free range chickens. There’s a very slim chance that you can raise free range quail and train them to roost in their coop at night. They tend to fly off given the first opportunity, so cages are a much better option for raising quail.

Feeding Your Quail

Quail need a high-protein diet, especially during growth and egg production. Use specialized game bird feed or a high-protein poultry feed (around 20-24% protein).

Provide grit if quail are consuming whole grains or seeds to help with digestion. Ensure fresh water is available at all times, as quail can easily become dehydrated.

Better Feed Conversion Rate

Quail are generally more efficient at converting feed into meat compared to chickens, making them a popular choice for small-scale meat production. This efficiency is primarily due to their smaller size, faster growth rate, and lower overall feed requirements. Here’s a comparison of feed conversion between quail and chickens:

Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR)

• Quail: Quail typically have a Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) of around 2:1. This means that for every 2 pounds (0.9 kg) of feed consumed, quail will produce 1 pound (0.45 kg) of body weight.
• Chickens: Broiler chickens, bred specifically for meat production, usually have an FCR between 1.5:1 to 2:1. However, chickens take longer to reach market weight compared to quail.

Growth and Harvest Time

• Quail: Quail grow very quickly, reaching full size and being ready for harvest in just 6-8 weeks. During this short period, they consume relatively little feed, making them efficient in converting feed into meat. Hens lay their first egg at about 6 weeks old as well.
• Chickens: Broiler chickens generally take 6-8 weeks to reach harvest weight as well, but they require much more space and feed due to their larger size.

Feed Efficiency in Small-Scale Operations

• Quail: Due to their smaller size, quail consume less feed overall and can be raised in smaller spaces, making them a more efficient option in terms of feed use for the amount of meat produced.
• Chickens: While broiler chickens also have a good FCR, they require more space, feed, and time compared to quail for the same volume of meat production.

Egg Production Consideration

• Quail are also more efficient in converting feed into eggs compared to chickens. On average, quail consume less feed per gram of egg produced than chickens do.
• You may consider researching a little more on comparing quail eggs to chicken eggs before jumping in to keeping quail yourself.

Butchering

Butchering quail at home for meat is relatively easy compared to larger poultry like chickens. Quail are small birds, and the process can be quick and manageable even for beginners. Here’s a basic outline of how to do it:

Tools and Supplies

• Sharp knife or poultry shears
• Clean workspace
• Bucket of cold water or ice bath (to cool the birds after processing)
• Gloves (optional, for hygiene)
• Towel or paper towels for cleanup

Basic Steps

1. Preparation:
   • Ensure the quail are calm and handled gently before processing. Set up a clean area to work in with all your tools ready.
2. Stunning/Killing the Bird:
   • The easiest and most humane way to kill quail is by cervical dislocation (snapping the neck) or by using sharp scissors to decapitate the bird.
3. Plucking or Skinning:
   • Plucking: Quail feathers can be plucked easily by hand. Dipping the bird in hot water (around 140°F or 60°C) for 10-20 seconds loosens the feathers, making plucking quicker.
   • Skinning: Many people prefer to skin quail because of its small size. This method saves time and avoids plucking. You can cut the skin at the breast and pull it off, along with the feathers.
4. Evisceration (Removing the Organs):
   • Cut along one side of the backbone, through the ribs to expose the internal organs. Gently remove all organs in one fell swoop. Save the heart and liver if desired (these are edible and often used in recipes).
   • Rinse the cavity with clean water.
5. Cooling and Storage:
   • Once cleaned, cool the birds in cold water or an ice bath for about 30 minutes.
   • Dry the quail and store in the refrigerator or freezer, depending on when you plan to cook them.

Why It’s Easy

• Small Size: Quail are much smaller than chickens or turkeys, making them easier to handle.
• Simple Tools: You don’t need special equipment. A sharp knife and a clean workspace suffice.
• Quick Process: The entire process is easily completed in just a few minutes, making the whole operation faster compared to larger poultry.

If you’re new to butchering, quail are an excellent choice to practice with because their small size makes them more manageable.

Ways to Make Money with Quail

Raising quail for sale can be a profitable venture, but like any business, its success depends on careful planning, understanding your market, and managing costs effectively. Here are some ways you can earn better profit margins with quail and the factors to consider.

1. Selling Quail Eggs:
   • Market Demand: Quail eggs are considered a delicacy in many cultures and are often used in gourmet cooking. They are rich in nutrients and can appeal to health-conscious consumers.
   • Market Channels: You can sell fresh eggs from quail to local farmers’ markets, restaurants, grocery stores, or directly to consumers. Specialty markets, such as ethnic or gourmet markets, can also be lucrative.
   • Price: Quail eggs typically sell for more than chicken eggs. Depending on your location, a dozen quail eggs might sell for $3 to $6 or more.
2. Selling Quail Meat:
   • Demand for Meat: Quail meat is lean, flavorful, and popular in gourmet restaurants, especially those that serve game birds. It’s also sought after by people on specialized diets.
   • Processing: You can sell live quail for others to process or butcher them yourself (if local regulations allow). Some small farms sell processed quail to local butcher shops, restaurants, or directly to customers.
   • Price: Quail meat can fetch a premium price, typically ranging from $4 to $10 per bird depending on size, breed, and your market.
3. Selling Live Quail (for Breeding or Pets):
   • Breeding Stock: Some people may want to start their own quail-raising business or keep quail for personal egg and meat production. You can sell fertile quail eggs, day-old chicks, or breeding adults.
   • Specialized Breeds: Certain breeds like Coturnix quail are popular for egg and meat production, while others may be bred for their appearance or other specific traits.

More Quail Products

You may not have thought of these extras resources provided by quail that you can capitalize on.

1. Quail Manure:
   • Fertilizer: Quail manure is a valuable fertilizer for gardeners. You can sell it locally or use it to enhance your own crops if you have a homestead.
2. Selling Quail-related Products:
   • Feathers: Quail feathers can be sold to crafters, fly fishers (for tying flies), or artisans.
   • Eggshells for Crafting: Quail eggshells are often used in decorative crafts, especially in cultures that use painted eggs.

Considerations for Profitability

1. Initial Setup Costs:
   • Housing: You will need appropriate housing (such as cages or pens), feeding stations, and water systems. Quail don’t need as much space as chickens, but ensuring they have a proper environment is crucial.
   • Incubators and Brooders: If you’re planning to breed quail, you’ll need an incubator and a brooder with heat lamp to hatch and raise chicks.
2. Ongoing Expenses:
   • Feed: Quail eat a protein-rich diet, and feeding costs will be one of your main expenses. Efficient feed management is essential for profitability.
   • Bedding and Sanitation: You’ll need to keep your quail’s environment clean and sanitary, which requires bedding (like pine shavings) and regular cleaning.
3. Regulations and Licensing:
   • Depending on your location, there may be regulations for selling quail eggs, meat, or live birds. You may need a license for processing meat, particularly if you’re selling to restaurants or stores.
   • Check with local health departments and agriculture boards for specific requirements.
4. Marketing and Sales:
   • You’ll need to find reliable buyers, which could include local restaurants, gourmet markets, and online customers. Building a customer base through farmers’ markets or local food networks can help generate steady sales.
5. Scale:
   • Small Scale: A small operation might supplement your income, but profitability will increase as you scale. Breeding more birds or focusing on specific niche markets (e.g., gourmet restaurants or specialty egg markets) can boost profits.
   • Commercial Scale: Larger commercial operations can make significant profits, but they also require more space, investment in infrastructure, and management.

Key Advantages of Quail Farming:

• Quick Turnaround: Quail grow quickly, reaching maturity at about 6-8 weeks. This fast life cycle means you can produce eggs and meat at a faster rate than with other poultry.
• Less Space Required: You can raise many quail in a small space, which lowers overhead costs compared to raising chickens or other livestock.
• Niche Market: Quail products, particularly eggs and meat, are often sold at a premium because they cater to niche markets.

Potential Problems:

• Finding Reliable Markets: Since quail products are niche, it might take time to establish regular buyers.
• Regulatory Hurdles: Make sure you meet all local regulations for selling meat, eggs, and live animals.
• Handling Large Volumes: If you scale up, managing large numbers of birds can become labor-intensive.

Conclusion, Can Quail Live With Chickens?

In summary, chickens and quail have different needs in terms of health, behavior, and environment. Housing them together can lead to stress, injuries, and a higher likelihood of disease, making it generally unwise to keep them in the same living space.

By carefully managing these aspects, quail can thrive and provide eggs, meat, or companionship. Proper planning and attention to their needs will help ensure a successful quail-keeping experience.

Just remember that when asking can quail live with chickens, the answer is no. Give them their own space for when adding these small backyard birds to your homestead.

Happy Homesteading!

Donna and her family have been homesteading for most of their 20+  years together in some shape or fashion. She currently lives on their 20 acre farm where they grow as much food as possible. What started as a just a few laying hens, has grown into large gardens, pastured poultry, pork, and lamb. They are continuously evolving their small farm to not suit their family’s needs, but also providing to their local community. Donna’s favorite part of the family farm is her self-built micro-dairy, where she gets to love on dairy cows while serving her local community. Milking, cheesemaking, and processing dairy have become the soul of their homestead and the center of their farm.