Supplementing Coturnix Quail Diet

[MuziMuz]

Hi all,

I am new to the forum and new to birdkeeping as a whole.

I have kept and bred dogs, reptiles, and invertebrates for many years.

In about a week, I will be receiving 12 Jumbo Coturnix quail chicks (aged 1–10 days)

I've prepared a two-tier hutch that can accommodate 28 adult birds, with a floor space that accommodates roughly 3 adult birds per square foot. I'm currently working on the brooder.

I'm based in South Africa, and finding a quail feed is quite challenging. The alternative is pheasant feed, but it's about 3.3 times the price of broiler starter feed, which is more readily available.

Here are my questions:
From my research, I understand that Jumbo Coturnix quail chicks need between 22% and 26% crude protein, and adults need 18%-20% crude protein.

The available broiler starter has around 18%-20% crude protein, and the layer mash has 15%-18%.

Feeding Coturnix Quail chicks (week 1 to week 7):
Can I supplement my feed with the following:

• Dubia roaches (3 times a week): Protein - 21.40%; fat - 6.1%. Reference
• Mealworms (2 times a week): Protein - 20%; fat - 13%. Reference
• Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae (1 time a week): Protein - 57.6%; fat - 21.6%. Reference

Feeding Adults:
Once fully grown, could I:

• Stick with the broiler starter with the Black Soldier Fly larvae (due to its high calcium content) as a treat once a week or every other day.
• Or should I feed the broiler starter with a calcium/phosphorus supplement or oyster eggs?
• Alternatively, should I switch to a layer mash and supplement with insects for additional protein?

Additional Notes:
I've created a spreadsheet to calculate how many grams of each insect type I would need to add to compensate for the shortfall in protein.

To prevent the possible breeding of escapees, I plan to feed the Dubia and mealworms pre-killed. The BSF would be fed live.

Any advice or insight would be greatly appreciated.

Regards,
Muzi Nkosi

 

[arianna7]

Hey Muzi!

Welcome to the forum! It's awesome that you're diving into birdkeeping after your experience with dogs, reptiles, and invertebrates. Sounds like you're setting up a great space for your Jumbo Coturnix quail!

Your hutch setup sounds solid, and it's good that you're thinking ahead about their diet. Since you’re in South Africa and having trouble finding quail feed, your plan to supplement with insects is a smart move.

For the chicks, since they need that 22%-26% protein, supplementing with Dubia roaches and mealworms is a great idea. The BSF larvae are super high in protein, so adding those once a week will definitely help boost their intake. Just make sure to monitor their growth and adjust as needed.

For the adults, sticking with the broiler starter sounds fine, especially if you’re adding BSF larvae for extra calcium. If you go that route, just keep an eye on their overall health and egg production. If you notice any calcium deficiencies, you can always add a calcium supplement or oyster shell as needed.

Switching to layer mash could work too, but you might need to supplement with insects to keep their protein levels up. Your spreadsheet sounds like a great tool to calculate the right amounts!

Feeding pre-killed Dubia and mealworms is a smart move to prevent escapees, and feeding BSF live is a good choice since they’re nutritious.

Overall, it sounds like you’re on the right track! Just keep an eye on their growth and behavior, and don’t hesitate to ask more questions as you go along. Good luck with your quail adventure!