What to Feed Quail (and What Not To)
A searchable checker plus the safe-and-unsafe lists for backyard quail.
Quail are simple to feed with one key difference from chickens: they need much higher protein. Give them a game-bird starter (24-28% protein), fine grit, shell for layers, and treats in small amounts to suit their size.
Two quail-specific rules:
- High protein. Quail need a game-bird or turkey starter at 24-28% protein, not standard chicken layer feed, which is too low for them.
- Fine grit and shell. Offer fine grit for digestion and crushed shell for laying hens. Chick water needs marbles or a shallow dish so chicks cannot drown.
Can quail eat...? Search it
The never list
Bread (especially for ducks), avocado, chocolate and caffeine, raw or green potato, dried raw beans, rhubarb leaves, heavy onion or garlic, and anything salty, oily or mouldy. Everything else fresh and unsalted is fair game in moderation.
Track feed costs in the app. The free Flock tracker works out feed for quail, ducks and chickens together, and what your eggs are worth.
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