Poultry farming usually focuses on raising chickens, but some smart farmers are now turning to Coturnix quail. These quail are smaller than chickens but can be more efficient, productive, and economical. Contrary to conventional wisdom, the size of the bird does not necessarily dictate its productivity or the efficiency of their production.
In fact, as we are about to explore, smaller can indeed be better. Coturnix quail are better economically, require less work, and are more productive because they are small and need less space.
Quail vs Chicken Size Comparison
Coturnix Quail can weigh anywhere between 6 to 16 ounces, depending on type of coturnix quail. While chickens can weigh between 3 to 10 pounds, depending on the chicken breed. Thus, chickens are roughly 3 to 20 times larger than quail. Yet, the size difference does not always favor the larger bird when it comes to efficiency and productivity.
Space Requirements Comparison
Thanks to their smaller size, Coturnix quail demand less space to thrive compared to chickens. Chicken coops come in many different styles and sizes, however quail simply require less square footage than chickens. This results in less space needed and housing can cost significantly less for quail vs chickens.
For chicken layers, it is recommended to have 2-4 square feet per chicken. The size of the coop depends on the breed and farming style. Contrastingly, you can raise 3-4 coturnix quail in 1 square foot of space. Quail can also be kept well in stacked cages, allowing for even more birds in a small footprint This increases productivity per square foot.
Quail Vs Chicken – Feed Requirements
In terms of feed, Coturnix quail also emerge as the more efficient option. The amount of food they eat per day ranges between 0.5 and 1.5 ounces. In comparison, a chicken consumes around 4 to 6 ounces of food daily.
On a per pound of body weight basis, quail require less feed than chickens, thus rendering them more efficient feed converters. Quail grow faster than chickens and reach slaughter weight in 6-8 weeks, while heritage breed chickens take 16-20 weeks. This means that raising quail costs less per pound of meat in terms of feed cost.
Economic and Labor Considerations
Taking into account the expenses of infrastructure, feed, and labor, raising Coturnix quail is a more economical option. The smaller size and space requirements of quail equate to lower housing and feeding costs. The capacity to raise a larger number of quail in a smaller space also decreases the labor required per bird.
Quail lay eggs at six weeks, while chickens take 20-24 weeks. This means quail provide faster returns. Additionally, quail have a shorter lifecycle. You can raise multiple batches of quail in the same time it takes to raise one batch of chickens. This makes quail more productive and provides quicker batch cycles.
Time for the Coturnix Quail to Shine
Coturnix quail are emerging as an excellent alternative to chickens in terms of economics, labor, and environmental considerations.
Quail vs Chicken Size and space requirements, coupled with their feed efficiency and faster lifecycle, offer increased productivity and quicker returns. When it comes to raising poultry, it’s time for the smaller bird to take the spotlight!