I have local access to 4 week to 6 month old birds. Which should I get and why?

[odatria]

I have local access to a few birds of various ages. I want to acquire them for breeding but Im not sure what age birds would suit me best. The youngest are 4-6 weeks old and the oldest are 6 months old. I am buying 2 males and 6-8 females. I have kept quail in the past, but Im not familar with longevity in regards to breeding. Which ones should I purchase and why?

Thanks in advance for your reply.

Mike

[makesmiles]

What kind of quail are you talking about?

 

[odatria]

I guess that would help huh? They are Coturnix Quail.

[Suz658]

Take the 4-6 week old quail. Coturnix quails fertility drops quite dramatically after around 9 months of age.

[makesmiles]

I agree with Suz.  The Coturnix will begin to lay at around 7 to 8 weeks.  The first week of eggs will not be too fertile.  Also keep in mind that when you first get them, if they are laying, they may stop for 1 to 2 weeks because of stress of the move.

Good luck.

David

 

[odatria]

Thanks to all who replied. As it turns out, I ended up buying all of his birds. When I showed up to pick up the 4-6 week olds, he said he was moving and needed to sell his flock. So, my first Quail purchase will probably be the best deal I will ever see. 68 birds with cages feeders waterers and feed all for $75! I couldn't pass them up at that price. Im sure  will have plenty of questions and from what I have read here you all are real great about sharing your knowledge. I appreciate it and look forward to contributing in the future.

[jbird]

For a person just starting out, it sounds like you really lucked out. Cages, feeders, waterer's, that all adds up fast. good luck with the birds

[mobe_45]

awesome buy.