If your quail hens are over 6 weeks old and haven’t started laying eggs, there’s probably an issue. If they were laying and stopped suddenly, there’s definitely an issue. Quail are very sensitive to their environment, and many stressors will affect their ability to lay eggs consistently. Here are ten factors that can affect their laying:
1. Feed. Quail need 25-30% protein feed to lay every day. Meat Bird feed and All Flock feed is usually about 22%, and it’s just too low.
2. Light. Quail are super sensitive to light. 14-16 hours are required. Ambient light from a nearby window or a nightlight isn’t enough, even in summer. They need supplemental light on or near their cage/enclosure. It can be incandescent, fluorescent, or LED. Use a timer to turn on and off the light in the morning and evening.
The first two factors are BY FAR the most common reasons why quail aren’t laying. Make sure feed protein and supplemental light are addressed first. Then consider these other reasons.
3. Water. If quail run out of water for half a day, it can affect laying for a week or more. Quail drink a lot!
4. Water Quality. Water should be fresh. Stagnant water, like from a rain barrel, can contain parasites like giardia. If it doesn’t kill them, it will slow down their egg production.
5. Security. If quail are threatened by a stray cat, dog, raccoon, or even mice, they will stop laying. Make sure they are comfortable in their environment with no stalking predators.
6. Heat. High temps can affect laying. Keep quail out of direct sunlight and provide a fan on warm and humid days. Quail are built for cold temps; just keep them out of the wind and make sure their water doesn’t freeze.
7. Molt. Yes, molt will slow them down, but it’s usually over quickly because of their high metabolism. Don’t be too quick to blame a laying issue on molt.
8. Parasites. Mites and worms can affect laying and overall health. An infestation of mites can make a bird lethargic and even kill them. Young healthy birds are better at fighting off parasites. Quail in cages don’t usually get parasites; quail on the ground do.
9. Diseases. Quail in cages don’t usually contract diseases like coccidiosis, but quail in contact with the ground can. Treat coccidiosis with medicated feed or a water supplement like Corid.
10. Age. Quails live about 2 years, which means that after 1 year, they are “over the hill.” So if your quail are older than 1 year, you’ll notice a significant decrease in production and probably overall health. Replace your quail at least annually.
Hopefully this helps you diagnose your egg production issue. Keep your quail healthy, happy, and young so you can enjoy their delicious eggs year-round!