Coturnix Quail Lifespan
Coturnix quail have a relatively short lifespan compared to other homestead or hobby farm animals. The average quail lifespan is about 2-3 years. When you think about a chicken that has a lifespan of about 5-7 years depending on the breed, the quail lifespan is quite short.
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Coturnix Quail Lifespan
We actually had our oldest quail pass away a few weeks ago, she was the only one left of our original quail and she was more than two years old.
The Coturnix quail is capable of laying one egg every day between two and eight months. They are especially prolific and productive at this time, able to lay as many as 300 eggs a year.
However, up to two years after their maturation, their fertility will decline, although they'll still be able to produce between 200 and 300 eggs yearly thereafter.
Why Do Quail Have Short Lifespans?
Unlike mammals, like all birds, quail have a higher metabolic rate, body temperature, and resting blood glucose level. These factors contribute to their shorter lifespan.
Why Raise Quail if they have a Short Lifespan?
After two years I thought about no longer raising quail. That thought only lasted a few days because they are cute, funny little birds. But aside from that…
- short incubation time – 18 days
- fast growth, fully mature at 6-9 weeks
- start laying eggs as soon as 6 weeks
- can be butchered at 7 weeks
They are a quick source of food for your homestead. You can easily keep hatching, raising, and butchering throughout the warmer months of the year.
Button Quail Lifespan
Button quail can also live between 4 to 5 years, so be ready to support the bird for that period of time.
I don't have any real experience with button quail. I have no personal experience, they aren't a bird meant for raising eggs or meat as they are very small birds.
Quail on Your Homestead
How to Take Care of a Baby Quail
