- Quail farming is a low-cost, high-profit poultry business ideal for small spaces.
- Birds mature in 6–7 weeks and lay 250–300 eggs/year.
- Requires only 50–60 birds per sqm with minimal feed cost.
- Profits come from selling eggs, meat, and chicks.
- High demand in local markets, hotels, and health food stores.
Quail bird farming is gaining popularity in India because it is affordable, requires minimal space, and delivers quick returns. With a maturity period of just 6 weeks and high egg-laying capacity, quails are perfect for both beginners and experienced farmers. This guide will walk you through everything — from setup and care to profit-making strategies.
Why Choose Quail Bird Farming?
- Low investment & high returns – cheaper than chicken or duck farming.
- Quick growth – ready for market in 6–7 weeks.
- Small space requirement – can be done in backyards or on rooftops.
- Disease-resistant compared to other poultry birds.
- Multiple income sources – eggs, meat, and chicks.
Popular Quail Breeds in India
| Breed Name | Egg Production per Year | Special Feature |
| Japanese Quail | 250–300 eggs | Fast growth, high egg yield |
| Bobwhite Quail | 200–250 eggs | Tasty meat |
| Coturnix Quail | 280–320 eggs | Adaptable to climate |
| Texas A&M Quail | 250 eggs | Larger body, good meat |
Housing & Space Requirements
Proper housing is crucial for healthy growth, high egg production, and preventing diseases. Since quails are small, they don’t need much space, but their housing must be safe, comfortable, and hygienic.
- Space Requirement: You can keep 50–60 quails per square meter. In a multi-tier cage system, this can be increased without overcrowding.
- Cage Height: Keep cages around 25 cm high — quails can jump suddenly and injure their heads if cages are too tall.
- Flooring: Use wire mesh flooring so droppings fall through, keeping the cage cleaner and reducing disease risk. A tray under the cage can collect waste for easy disposal.
- Temperature: Maintain an environment between 20–25°C. Extreme heat or cold reduces egg production and can stress the birds. In hotter regions, install cooling fans or shade nets; in colder areas, use heat lamps.
- Ventilation: Ensure proper airflow without direct cold drafts. Ventilation prevents ammonia buildup from droppings, which can harm respiratory health.
- Lighting: Provide 14–16 hours of light daily to encourage consistent egg laying. LED or CFL lights work well.
- Protection: Keep the housing safe from predators like rats, snakes, and cats. Use a fine mesh to cover all openings.
Tip: In commercial quail farming, using stacked cage systems can triple your bird capacity in the same space, while making feeding and cleaning easier.
Feeding & Nutrition
| Age | Feed Type | Protein Content |
| 0–3 weeks | Starter feed | 27% protein |
| 4–6 weeks | Grower feed | 20–22% protein |
| Adult | Layer feed | 18% protein |
Supplements: Grit, vitamins, and calcium for stronger eggshells.
Breeding & Egg Production
- Ratio: Keep 1 male for every 3 females for the best fertility.
- Egg laying starts at 6–7 weeks with proper nutrition and lighting.
- Peak output: 250–300 eggs/year, highest in the first 6–8 months.
- Incubation: 16–18 days at 37.5°C, 60–65% humidity.
- Hatch rate: 70–85% if eggs are healthy and conditions are right.
- Chick care: Start brooder temp at 35°C, reduce weekly until feathered.
Tip: Maintain separate flocks for egg production and breeding for year-round output.
Investment & Profit Potential
| Expense | Cost (Approx.) |
| 100 chicks | ₹3,000 – ₹4,000 |
| Cages & housing | ₹10,000 – ₹15,000 |
| Feed/month | ₹2,500 – ₹3,000 |
| Misc. (medicine, water) | ₹1,000 |
Monthly Income Example:
- Egg sales: 2,000 eggs × ₹4 each = ₹8,000
- Meat sales: 50 birds × ₹70 each = ₹3,500
- Total Income: ₹11,500/month (with 100 birds)
Marketing & Sales
- Sell eggs in local markets, hotels, and restaurants.
- Partner with organic stores for health-conscious buyers.
- Use social media for farm branding.
Tip: Quail eggs are marketed as a health food — use this in promotions.
Key Takeaways
- Quail farming is affordable, profitable, and space-saving.
- Birds mature fast and start laying eggs early.
- Low maintenance compared to other poultry.
- High market demand for both eggs and meat.
- A good business for beginners and small entrepreneurs.
Conclusion
Quail bird farming in 2025 is an excellent opportunity for anyone looking to start a low-cost poultry business with high returns. With minimal space and investment, you can quickly build a profitable venture while contributing to the growing demand for healthy poultry products.
Explore more blogs to boost your farming knowledge and make smarter agri-business moves.
FAQs
About 2 sqm (multi-tier cage saves more space).
Around 6–7 weeks.
Around ₹15,000–₹20,000, including cages.
Starter feed, grower feed, and layer feed.
Yes, with proper cages and ventilation.
250–300 eggs.
Yes, higher in vitamins and protein.
Minimal, but biosecurity is important.
16–18 days.
Yes, but check local poultry regulations.
