How Many Eggs Can You Expect from Coturnix Quail?

One of the biggest reasons people choose to raise Coturnix quail on their homesteads is the incredible egg production these little birds are capable of. Whether you’re looking for a sustainable source of eggs for your family or want to sell quail eggs as part of your homestead business, Coturnix quail deliver a lot of bang for your buck. These birds are prolific layers, often outshining even some of the best chicken breeds when it comes to egg output.

So, how many eggs can you expect from Coturnix quail, and what do you need to know to keep them laying consistently? Let’s dive into the details.

How Many Eggs Do Coturnix Quail Lay?

Prolific Layers Right from the Start

One of the biggest advantages of Coturnix quail is how quickly they start laying eggs. At just 6-8 weeks of age, these tiny birds are ready to lay, making them one of the fastest-producing egg layers in the bird world. Once they hit maturity, you can expect a single female quail to lay about 5-6 eggs per week, or roughly 300 eggs per year. If you compare that to chickens, quail reach laying age much sooner and lay more frequently in their first year of life.

“I was amazed when my first Coturnix quail began laying eggs at just six weeks old. It was a game-changer for my homestead.”

Seasonality and Egg Production

While Coturnix quail are consistent layers, their egg production can slow down during the winter months, just like chickens. This drop in production is usually due to the reduced daylight hours. In my experience, providing supplemental lighting in their enclosure during the winter months can keep their egg production steady. By giving them 14-16 hours of light per day, you can encourage them to keep laying year-round, even in the colder, darker months.

A simple, low-wattage bulb on a timer can help extend their daylight hours. Make sure the light is soft and not too bright, and avoid 24-hour lighting, as quail need darkness for rest.

Size and Nutrition of Quail Eggs

Quail eggs are smaller than chicken eggs, but what they lack in size, they make up for in nutrition and taste. Each egg is about one-third the size of a standard chicken egg, yet they’re packed with more protein per gram and loaded with essential vitamins and minerals. In fact, quail eggs contain higher concentrations of vitamins B12, B6, and A, along with iron, phosphorus, and selenium—all important for maintaining energy levels and supporting immune function. Their small size belies their richness, with a higher yolk-to-white ratio, giving them a creamier texture and deeper flavor than chicken eggs.

I’ve found quail eggs to be noticeably richer in flavor, with a slightly buttery taste that makes them a delightful addition to any dish, from salads to baked goods. The dense nutrient profile, combined with their unique taste, makes quail eggs a powerhouse ingredient in any meal. Whether you’re looking to add more protein to your diet, increase your intake of essential vitamins, or simply try something new, quail eggs are an excellent, versatile choice. Plus, they’re a fun way to experiment with bite-sized versions of your favorite egg-based recipes!

Factors That Affect Egg Production in Coturnix Quail

Light Exposure

Coturnix quail need about 14-16 hours of daylight to keep laying consistently. In the summer, natural sunlight usually provides enough light, but during shorter winter days, it helps to add artificial light to their pen. I use a simple LED bulb on a timer to keep my quail in their laying routine, and it’s worked wonders for ensuring a steady supply of eggs, even in the dead of winter.

Nutrition and Diet

Proper nutrition plays a huge role in egg production. Quail need a diet high in protein—around 20-24% protein—to support healthy laying. I feed my quail a game bird feed that’s specifically designed to meet their protein needs, and I also supplement their diet with crushed oyster shells to boost their calcium intake. This keeps their eggshells strong and helps prevent any soft or misshapen eggs.

“Providing the right diet and ensuring my quail get enough calcium has made all the difference in keeping my quail healthy and laying consistently.”

For more information on protein needs and recommended commercial feeds, click here, and for a list of nutritious snacks and treats, click here.

Stress and Environmental Factors

Like any animal, Coturnix quail can be sensitive to stress, which can impact their egg production. Factors like overcrowding, poor ventilation, or loud noises can all contribute to a decline in laying. I make sure to keep my quail pens clean, well-ventilated, and spacious enough to prevent overcrowding. I’ve also found that giving them little hiding spots or shelters helps reduce their stress levels and keeps them laying happily.

If you notice aggressive behavior in any of your quail, it’s important to promptly remove the aggressive bird from the covey to prevent injury or stress to the others. Aggression in quail can lead to feather pecking, bullying, and even serious harm, especially in confined spaces. In many cases, aggression is genetic, so it’s best not to breed birds that display this trait, as it can be passed onto future generations. By selectively breeding for calm and docile quail, you’ll help maintain a peaceful, healthy covey while avoiding ongoing behavioral issues.

How to Maximize Egg Production in Coturnix Quail

Supplemental Lighting

As I mentioned earlier, quail egg production often drops in the winter due to shorter daylight hours. By providing supplemental lighting for 14-16 hours a day, you can extend their laying period throughout the year. I recommend using an energy-efficient bulb on a timer to automate this process. You’ll be amazed at how much a little extra light can keep your quail productive during the off-season.

Consistent Feeding Schedule

Quail thrive on routine, and I’ve found that sticking to a consistent feeding schedule helps keep them laying regularly. Feed your quail at the same time each day, and make sure they always have access to fresh, clean water. A consistent schedule not only keeps them healthy but also helps them maintain a steady egg production cycle.

Temperature Control

While Coturnix quail are pretty hardy birds, extreme temperatures—especially cold—can cause them to stop laying. In colder climates, I’ve found that insulating their pen and ensuring they have enough bedding can make a big difference. You don’t need to go overboard with heating, but keeping their environment comfortable during the winter months will help prevent a drop in egg production.

For more tips on increasing quail egg production, check out this helpful guide from An Extraordinary Existence.

What to Do With All Those Quail Eggs?

Eating and Cooking with Quail Eggs

If you’ve never cooked with quail eggs, you’re in for a treat. They’re a versatile ingredient that can be used in everything from breakfast dishes to appetizers. I love using them to make mini frittatas, or just boiling them for a quick and healthy snack. Their rich flavor adds a gourmet touch to any dish, and they’re perfect for feeding a small family or making a unique addition to your next gathering.

Selling Quail Eggs

With so many eggs coming in weekly, it’s no surprise that many homesteaders sell their extra quail eggs. Whether at a local farmer’s market or directly to neighbors, quail eggs have a unique appeal, and people are often excited to try them. I sell my extra eggs, and they’re always a hit with customers looking for something a little different from the standard chicken egg.

Preserving Quail Eggs

If you want to preserve your quail eggs for future use, pickling is a fantastic option. Pickled quail eggs are delicious, easy to make, and store well for months. I also use my quail eggs in baking when I have an overabundance, substituting three quail eggs for every one chicken egg in my favorite recipes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Coturnix quail are truly egg-laying machines, making them an excellent choice for homesteaders looking to produce a steady supply of fresh eggs. Whether you’re raising them for personal use or as a small business venture, these little birds will reward you with consistent egg production and a nutritious food source. With the right care, a good diet, and a little extra light during the winter months, you can expect a bounty of quail eggs from your covey year-round.

“Raising Coturnix quail has been one of the most rewarding decisions for my homestead. Their egg production is unmatched, and they provide an abundance of fresh, delicious eggs with minimal effort.”

For amazing recipes that utilize those yummy eggs, check out this post on The 104 Homestead.