If you’re looking to start your own quail flock, finding the right place to buy quail chicks is your first big step. It’s exciting, right? Quail are such rewarding birds to raise, whether you’re in it for their tasty eggs, delicious meat, or just for the sheer joy of watching these quick, charming little creatures. Many people are surprised by how quickly they mature, with some breeds like Coturnix quail starting to lay eggs as early as six weeks old. This guide will walk you through all the best places to find your new feathered friends, from online hatcheries to local farm stores and even community swaps. We’ll also cover essential supplies you’ll need, like a chick brooder and quail starter feed, so you’re completely ready when your little peepers arrive. Getting started the right way makes all the difference for a successful and enjoyable quail-raising journey.

Raising quail has become super popular, and for good reason! They’re relatively small, quiet, and incredibly productive. But before you get too excited about those adorable little fluff balls, you need to know where to find them. It’s not always as simple as picking up a dozen at your local grocery store, so let’s break down your options.

Online Hatcheries: The Easiest Route

When you’re looking to buy quail chicks, especially if you want a specific breed or a larger quantity, online hatcheries are usually your best bet. They specialize in shipping day-old chicks directly to your doorstep, or rather, your local post office. Most hatcheries have robust systems in place to ensure the chicks arrive safely, though you might have minimum order requirements to help keep the chicks warm during transit.

Why go the online route? Well, for starters, you get access to a massive selection of breeds that you might not find anywhere else. Think about it, whether you’re after robust Jumbo Coturnix quail chicks for meat and eggs, the game bird favorite Northern Bobwhite quail chicks, or the more ornamental Button quail chicks, online hatcheries typically have them all. Plus, they often have scheduled hatch dates, so you can plan your brooder setup well in advance.

0.0

0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)

Excellent0%

Very good0%

Average0%

Poor0%

Terrible0%

There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.

Amazon.com: Check Amazon for Where to Buy
Latest Discussions & Reviews:

Some of the most reputable online hatcheries that ship quail chicks include:

Murray McMurray Hatchery: They offer a wide selection of day-old quail chicks, including Bobwhite, Tennessee Red, California Valley, and Coturnix quail. They even have sexed Coturnix quail in packs of 10, often around 3-6 weeks old for safer shipping.
Stromberg’s Chickens: This hatchery is another great resource, offering Northern Bobwhite, Tennessee Red, Japanese Coturnix, Jumbo Coturnix, California Valley, Gambel, Celadon Coturnix, and Blue Scale quail chicks. They often sell day-old chicks and sometimes adults, depending on availability.
Cackle Hatchery: Operating since 1936, Cackle Hatchery is a long-standing name in poultry. They ship day-old Pharaoh Coturnix quail chicks, often with a 50-chick minimum order during their season typically May through August. They pride themselves on selective breeding for disease resistance.
Az Chickens: They offer Jumbo Coturnix quail chicks, often from around $69 for a batch, and also provide juvenile and adult birds.
Sugar Feather Farm: If you’re looking for Button quail chicks, Sugar Feather Farm is a good option. They highlight Button quail as “observational pets” due to their small size and quiet nature.

When ordering online, always check their shipping policies. Live bird shipping usually occurs on specific days like Mondays, Tuesdays, or Wednesdays to avoid weekend delays. The chicks are typically shipped via Priority Mail Express to ensure they arrive quickly, often within 1-2 days. They have enough energy and water reserves from their yolk sac for the journey, so they don’t usually require food or water during transit. It’s crucial to be ready to pick them up from the post office as soon as they arrive! Where to buy quick fix synthetic urine

Local Feed Stores & Farm Supply: Checking Your Neighborhood

For many, the first thought is to head to a local store. Places like Tractor Supply Co. are staples for homesteaders and backyard poultry keepers, and they do play a role in the quail chick world.

Does Tractor Supply sell quail chicks? The short answer is: sometimes, but it varies a lot by location and season. While they consistently carry a wide range of poultry supplies year-round, like poultry feeders, poultry waterers, and various types of poultry feed, their live bird availability can be a bit more limited. Many Tractor Supply stores will offer chicks, but these are often chickens, ducks, or turkeys. For quail, it’s typically through special or custom online orders, and usually with a minimum quantity, often for “straight run” unsexed chicks since sexing day-old quail is tricky.

It’s always a good idea to call your local store or check their website for their “Chick Days” schedule, which is when they typically have live birds available in the spring. You might find Bobwhite quail at some rural farm supply stores, but it’s not a guarantee.

Pros of buying locally: Where to Buy Peptides: Your Go-To Guide for Research and Wellness

You can physically inspect the chicks for health before you buy them.
No shipping stress for the birds.
You can get immediate advice from store staff.

Cons of buying locally:

Limited breed selection compared to online hatcheries.
Seasonal availability – you might only find them in spring.
Minimum purchase requirements can still apply.

Beyond Tractor Supply, keep an eye out for other independent feed stores or farm supply shops in your area. Sometimes, these smaller businesses might carry a limited stock or have bulletin boards with ads from local breeders.

Local Breeders & Small Farms: A Personal Touch

Connecting with local breeders is a fantastic way to acquire quail chicks, and it often provides a more personal experience. This route is particularly good if you’re looking for specific traits, local genetics, or simply want to support small-scale agriculture.

How do you find them?

Online Forums and Social Media Groups: Local farming, homesteading, or poultry groups on Facebook or other forums are treasure troves of information. People often post when they have chicks or hatching eggs for sale. Search for “quail breeders near me” or “quail chicks for sale near me” on these platforms.
Local Classifieds: Websites like Craigslist always exercise caution and meet in public places can list local sellers.
Word-of-Mouth: Ask around at your local feed store, farmers’ market, or agricultural cooperative. Someone always knows someone who raises quail!
Dedicated Local Farms: Some smaller operations, like Quail Life Farm & Hatchery, might not ship chicks but offer pick-up directly from their farm. They often provide excellent advice, especially if you’re new to raising quail.

The benefits of buying from a local breeder can be significant: Where to buy mead

Better Genetics/Specific Breeds: Local breeders might focus on specific lines, like large Jumbo Coturnix quail or hardy Bobwhite quail, potentially offering better quality birds tailored to your needs. For instance, some folks look for strong flyers for game bird purposes, while others prioritize egg production.
Personalized Advice: A good breeder will be a wealth of knowledge and can offer tailored advice for your climate and setup. They might even teach you how to sex your quail chicks, which can be tricky when they’re young.
Community Support: You become part of a local network, which can be invaluable for sharing tips, resources, or even trading eggs and birds in the future.

However, there can be drawbacks. Sometimes local breeders might not have the same biosecurity measures as larger hatcheries, so always inspect the birds carefully for any signs of illness before buying. Also, availability can be inconsistent, depending on the breeder’s production schedule.

Agricultural Swaps & Fairs: Community Connections

Agricultural swaps, livestock auctions, and local farm fairs are vibrant community events where you can often find a variety of poultry, including quail chicks. These events are like a living marketplace where you can see different breeds, chat with experienced breeders, and sometimes even haggle a bit.

How to find these events:

Check local county extension office websites.
Look at community event calendars.
Ask at your local feed store.
Search online for “agricultural swap meet near me” or “poultry fair “.

Tips for buying at swaps:

Arrive Early: The best selection often goes quickly.
Inspect Carefully: Before committing, gently check the chicks for alertness, clear eyes, clean vents, and active behavior. Avoid any chicks that seem lethargic, huddled, or have pasty vents.
Bring a Carrier: Have a secure, well-ventilated box or chick carrier ready to transport your new chicks home comfortably.
Ask Questions: Don’t be shy! Ask breeders about their birds’ age, breed, and their feeding or care routine.

While swaps can be a fun and direct way to get quail chicks, remember that these are often small-scale sellers. Health guarantees might not be as formal as with a registered hatchery.

Where to Buy Labubu Clothes Online

Essential Supplies for Your New Chicks: Be Prepared!

No matter where you decide to buy your quail chicks, being prepared for their arrival is absolutely crucial. Quail chicks are tiny and delicate, so they need a warm, safe environment from day one.

Here’s a checklist of what you’ll need:

1. Brooder Setup

A brooder is essentially a warm, safe enclosure for your chicks. You can buy a dedicated chick brooder or make one yourself from a large tote, stock tank, or even a sturdy cardboard box. Just make sure it’s draft-free, easy to clean, and big enough for the chicks to move around.

Where to Buy Labubu Near Me

2. Heat Source

Quail chicks need supplemental heat, especially for the first few weeks. A heat lamp with a red bulb which helps prevent pecking is a common choice. Position it so there’s a temperature gradient, allowing chicks to move closer or further away as needed. Alternatively, a brooder plate is a safer, more energy-efficient option that mimics a mother hen, allowing chicks to huddle underneath for warmth. Start the brooder temperature around 95-100°F 35-38°C for day-old chicks, reducing it by about 5°F 3°C each week until they are fully feathered and can regulate their own body temperature around 4-6 weeks for Coturnix.

3. Feeder & Waterer

Chicks need constant access to food and water. Use a chick feeder that prevents them from scattering too much feed, and a chick waterer that is shallow enough to prevent drowning. Many people put marbles or small stones in the water trough for the first few days to further reduce the risk.

4. Quail Starter Feed

Quail chicks need a high-protein diet, typically a 24-28% protein game bird starter feed. This is often higher than chicken starter feed. Make sure the feed is finely ground or “crumbles” small enough for their tiny beaks. Some people will even grind standard game bird crumbles a bit finer for the first week. For Button quail, some recommend a very high protein feed, around 28-30%, which is already ground up.

5. Bedding

Pine shavings or similar absorbent material works well as bedding for your brooder. Avoid cedar shavings, as the oils can be harmful to poultry. Keep the bedding clean and dry to prevent illness.

Important Considerations Before Buying

Before you get those cute little quail chicks, there are a few things you really ought to think about. This isn’t just about buying. it’s about being a responsible keeper! Where to Buy Labubu Dolls

Local Regulations

First off, you need to check your local city, county, and state regulations. Believe it or not, some places have restrictions on keeping poultry, including quail, especially certain species or if you plan to keep males some ordinances prohibit roosters, and this can extend to male quail too. For example, if you were looking to buy quail chicks in a place like Singapore, you’d have very different regulations to navigate compared to, say, Waco, TX, where rules might be more lenient. A quick call to your local animal control or agricultural extension office can save you a lot of headaches down the road. You definitely don’t want to get attached to your birds only to find out you can’t legally keep them.

Quail Species

There are several popular quail species, and each has its own quirks and benefits. Knowing what you want them for will help you choose:

Coturnix Quail Japanese Quail: These are probably the most popular choice for backyard keepers. They grow fast, reach maturity quickly sometimes laying eggs as early as 6-8 weeks, and are excellent for both eggs and meat. Jumbo Coturnix quail varieties can be quite substantial.
Bobwhite Quail: Known for their distinctive “bob-white” call and good flying capabilities, these are often raised for game bird purposes, dog training, or release into the wild. They take a bit longer to mature than Coturnix.
Button Quail Chinese Painted Quail: These are tiny, often kept as ornamental birds or pets due to their small size 3-4 inches! and endearing sounds. They lay small eggs and aren’t typically raised for meat production. They do lay about one egg every other day, but the eggs are extra small.
California Valley Quail: The state bird of California, these are known for their elegant plume and social nature. They can be raised for meat or eggs and are prized for their hardiness.

Health Checks

When you receive your chicks, especially if picking them up in person, do a quick health check. Look for:

Alertness: Healthy chicks are usually active and curious.
Clear Eyes: No discharge or cloudiness.
Clean Vents: No “pasty butt” dried droppings around the vent, which can be a sign of illness or stress.
Good Mobility: They should be able to stand and move around easily.

Reputable hatcheries will typically have a live arrival guarantee, but it’s still your responsibility to ensure they look healthy upon arrival and care for them properly thereafter.

Cost of Quail Chicks

How much do baby quail cost? The price can vary quite a bit depending on the breed, age, and where you buy them. Where to Snag Your Next Cuddly Jellycat Friend Near You

Day-old Coturnix chicks can range from around $2 to $5 each, often with minimum order requirements e.g., Cackle Hatchery has a 50-chick minimum for Pharaoh Coturnix, Murray McMurray sells sexed Coturnix in packs of 10.
Bobwhite chicks might be around $2.50 to $4.00 each for day-olds, but can go up to $7.00 for mature birds.
Button quail chicks can sometimes be a bit more expensive due to their specialty status.
Buying in bulk often reduces the per-chick price.
Remember to factor in shipping costs if ordering online, which can add a significant amount to your total.

Caring for Your New Quail Chicks

you’ve got your adorable little quail chicks. Now what? Proper care in their first few weeks is crucial for their survival and health. Think of it like bringing home a newborn – they need a lot of attention!

Brooder Temperature

This is probably the most critical factor. Day-old quail chicks are super sensitive to temperature fluctuations. You want to start their brooder off nice and toasty, usually around 95-100°F 35-38°C for the first week. A good way to tell if the temperature is right is by observing their behavior.

Too cold: If they’re huddled together directly under the heat source, chirping loudly, they’re probably chilly.
Too hot: If they’re spread out, panting, and avoiding the heat source, it’s too warm.
Just right: They’ll be moving around freely, exploring, eating, and drinking, with some resting comfortably under the heat.

You’ll need to gradually lower the temperature by about 5°F 3°C each week. You can do this by raising the heat lamp slightly or adjusting your brooder plate until they are fully feathered, which usually happens around 4-6 weeks for Coturnix quail. At that point, they should be able to handle ambient room temperature, assuming it’s not too cold.

Feeding and Watering

Quail chicks need access to fresh food and water 24/7.

Feed: As we talked about, a high-protein game bird starter 24-28% is ideal. Make sure it’s in a finely ground crumble or mash. Their beaks are tiny! Some people sprinkle a little feed on a paper towel for the first day so they learn to peck.
Water: Use a chick-sized waterer that’s shallow enough to prevent drowning. Those little plastic ones are perfect. Adding marbles or small stones to the trough for the first few days can give them something to step on and prevent accidental dips that can lead to chilling. Change the water daily and keep it clean. quail can be messy!

Hygiene

Keeping the brooder clean is super important to prevent disease. Quail chicks produce a lot of waste for their size, and damp, soiled bedding can quickly lead to respiratory issues or bacterial infections. Where to Buy Ice Near Me: Your Ultimate Guide to Staying Cool

Daily Spot Cleaning: Remove wet or soiled bedding every day.
Full Bedding Change: Plan for a full bedding change every few days to a week, depending on the number of chicks and the size of your brooder.
Sanitize Equipment: Clean and sanitize feeders and waterers regularly.
Ventilation: Ensure there’s good airflow in the brooder area, but without drafts, to help keep the air fresh.

Proper care in these early stages will give your quail chicks the best possible start and help them grow into healthy, productive adults. It might seem like a lot, but once you get into a routine, it becomes second nature!

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best time of year to buy quail chicks?

Generally, the best time to buy quail chicks is in the spring and early summer typically February through August or September for many hatcheries. This is when hatcheries have their peak season, and the warmer weather is more favorable for shipping live birds and getting them settled into a brooder. However, some hatcheries may offer chicks year-round or based on specific hatch dates.

How many quail chicks should I buy?

The number of quail chicks you should buy depends on your goals and local regulations. Quail are social creatures, so you should always buy more than one. a minimum of 3-6 chicks is a good starting point to ensure they have companions. If you’re raising for eggs or meat, you’ll need a larger flock. Many online hatcheries have minimum order quantities, often between 10 to 50 chicks, to ensure enough body heat for safe shipping.

Do quail chicks need vaccinations like chickens?

Quail chicks generally do not require the same routine vaccinations as chickens. They are quite hardy, and many common poultry diseases that affect chickens don’t typically pose the same threat to quail. However, maintaining excellent biosecurity, cleanliness in the brooder, and a proper diet are crucial for their health and preventing illness.

What’s the difference between Coturnix and Bobwhite quail chicks?

Coturnix or Japanese quail chicks mature very quickly, often starting to lay eggs by 6-8 weeks old and reaching market weight for meat around the same time. They are quieter and adapt well to confinement, making them popular for backyard enthusiasts. Bobwhite quail chicks, on the other hand, take longer to mature, typically around 16 weeks for adults, and are renowned for their wild instincts and flying ability, often favored for game bird purposes or dog training. They also have a distinctive “bob-white” call. Where to Buy Ice: Your Ultimate Guide to Staying Cool

Can I raise quail chicks with chicken chicks?

It’s generally not recommended to raise quail chicks with chicken chicks. Chickens are much larger and can be quite aggressive towards smaller birds, potentially injuring or even killing quail chicks. Additionally, quail and chickens have different dietary and space requirements. It’s best to keep your quail in a separate, secure enclosure to ensure their safety and well-being.

Where to Buy Quail Chicks: Your Ultimate Guide