About Forget-Me-Not Quail Farm of Maine

Tucked into the western Maine woods, Forget-Me-Not Quail Farm grew from one woman’s deep love for self-sufficiency, small birds, and good genetics. What started as a workaround for urban chicken rules has become a full-blown passion project turned thriving farm—offering quality Coturnix quail, local sales, and real-life support for anyone wanting to raise birds of their own.

I’m Jessica Knowles—zoologist, homesteader, and the slightly obsessed quail lady behind the scenes. Whether you’re here for hatching eggs, live birds, or to learn how to build a healthy, thriving covey, you’re in the right place.

How It All Started

My journey into quail started in a tiny urban backyard over a decade ago. Chickens were allowed—but no roosters—which meant I couldn’t hatch my own chicks without breaking the rules. That pushed me to look for another option, and once I discovered Coturnix quail, I was hooked.

They were quiet, productive, fascinating little creatures—and I found myself completely nerding out over the genetics and diversity they offered. I started with a small covey of Jumbo Browns and slowly built a breeding program focused on birds that were both practical and beautiful. Over time, my quail outgrew the backyard… and so did the dream. Now, I raise multiple color lines here on our 5 acre homestead, where everything is built around healthy birds and hands-on learning.

What We Stand For

Forget-Me-Not Quail Farm exists to make raising quail easier, more approachable, and more rewarding—whether you’re in the city or out in the country. Every bird we hatch and every guide I write is grounded in three core values:

  • Health over hype – I select for vigor, temperament, and size before anything else
  • Sustainability – Nothing goes to waste, from eggs to byproducts, and everything we do supports ethical small-scale farming
  • Real education – I don’t gatekeep. I want you to succeed, and I share everything I’ve learned to help you get there

This is small farming with big heart.

Meet the Team

It might say “I” a lot around here, but this farm runs on teamwork.

Jessica (that’s me!)

I manage the breeding programs, hatches, and most of the day-to-day farm work. I’m also the writer behind The 104 Homestead, where I teach practical homesteading skills with a dose of reality. My background in Zoology fuels everything I do—from pairing breeders to designing brooder setups that actually work.

Declan

My youngest and the farm’s resident chick taxi and craft expert. He’s got a sharp eye for spotting mischief in the pens and loves contributing handmade goodies to the farm stand.

Adam

My oldest son and the farm’s unofficial security team—he makes sure every door is locked and every animal is safe at night. He’s also our go-to quail photographer and can wrangle even the jumpiest bird like a pro.

Mike

My partner in life and construction. If something around here has a roof, he probably helped me build it. Mike keeps the infrastructure running and reminds me to dream big even when the to-do list is longer than a feed order receipt.

Our Breeding Programs

We focus on both beauty and utility—birds that lay well, grow efficiently, and look stunning in the process. We breed several color lines, each with its own charm and value. Some are true-breeding, some are mixed for strength and diversity, but all are chosen for health, size, and temperament.

Whether you’re here for blue eggs, meat production, or just the joy of seeing a dozen feather patterns in one pen, we’ve got birds you’ll love working with.

What We Offer

Forget-Me-Not Quail Farm provides:

And starting in 2025, we’ll be offering workshops and on-farm tours so you can get hands-on experience with quail care, incubation, and genetics right here on the farm.

Rooted in Community

We’re proud to be part of Maine’s small farm community and love connecting with folks who are just as excited about self-sufficiency, tiny eggs, and building something real. Whether you swing by the honor-system farm stand, join us for a tour, or reach out with questions, know that you’re always welcome here. Follow our Facebook Page for updates.

Join Us on the Journey

If you’re ready to raise Coturnix quail—or just curious where to start—I’d love to help. Explore the site, grab one of my guides, or reach out if you have questions. This lifestyle means the world to me, and I’m honored to share it with you.