Quail are small, delectable birds that easily fall prey to cunning predators. When constructing an indoor hutch or outdoor run, it is crucial to eliminate all potential entry points.

The tiniest gap may suffice for a snake or a crafty rat to infiltrate and wreak havoc among the quail.

Due to their diminutive size, quail are particularly vulnerable to predation, facing a greater variety of threats than other barnyard fowl.

For instance, without a subterranean barrier, a fox might dig beneath an outdoor enclosure and indulge in your quail.

Snakes, typically unable to consume an entire chicken, can readily devour a quail, and it's alarming how easily they, along with other small predators, can enter poorly constructed pens.

While many quail can be housed in a compact area, it's more considerate to give them ample space to move freely.

The standard guideline is to allocate at least 1 square foot per quail in an enclosure. Remember, this is just the minimum space requirement, and your quail would certainly benefit from additional room.

Be aware that quail vary greatly in shape and size based on the breed. Larger breeds will require more space in their enclosure, and more space is always preferable. At Gumpert Homestead Our Quail are raised indoors until 4-5 weeks then join our 400+ Square foot Natural Woodland Enclosure.

When considering space requirements, it's important to remember that overcrowding birds in a limited area increases the amount of feces. Quail droppings are particularly high in pH, leading to a greater risk of ammonia concentration and respiratory issues.

 Regular cleaning of quail cages is crucial to prevent diseases and maintain hygiene, which also promotes better air circulation in the pen and, if housed indoors, within the building as well.

Remember to allocate space for water fountains and feeders in your pens. Adult Quail use the same type of feeders and fountains as chickens, so the number of quail you have will dictate the space required for these. If you opt for a smaller cage, consider replacing traditional systems with nipple waterers that release water when the quail peck at them. Nipple waterers save significant space and maintain water cleanliness, and they are also suitable for outdoor enclosures. Additionally, ensure there is room for grit, which quail, like chickens, need for proper digestion. Grit acts as teeth in the digestive process. Since quail naturally forage and scratch at their grit, providing ample space for this behavior supports their instincts and aids in proper digestion.

Unlike chickens, quails do not roost. They can fly, but they prefer spending much of their time on the ground. At night, they usually nest in the material provided to them. Depending on the quail species, they may favor burrowing in straw or grassy materials, similar to their natural habitat. In a welded wire cage, a stable nesting area for laying eggs is essential for their contentment. Moreover, if your quails are housed in cages with wire bottoms, it's best to avoid any kind of shavings, as they tend to fall through the bottom and sides of the pen, especially during vigorous scratching. We Love using artificial grass and some straw in a wire bottom enclosure!