📖 Glossary
Key terms and definitions used in quail farming.
A heated enclosure used to raise young chicks during the first weeks of life.
Shining a bright light through an egg to observe its contents and check fertility.
The genus containing most commonly farmed quail species.
The ratio of feed consumed to product produced. Lower FCR = more efficient.
The final 2–3 days of incubation when egg turning stops and humidity is increased.
The process of a chick breaking through the eggshell during hatching.
📖 Additional Terms
A multi-tiered cage system where birds are housed in small wire enclosures stacked vertically. Maximizes bird density per square foot of floor space. Common in commercial egg production.
A bird raised specifically for meat production, as opposed to egg production. Quail broilers (meat birds) are typically processed at 5–7 weeks of age.
A behavioral disorder where birds peck at and consume the flesh, feathers, or vents of other birds. Usually caused by overcrowding, boredom, bright light, or nutritional deficiency (low protein).
The common opening at the rear of the bird through which digestive, urinary, and reproductive tracts empty. Used for both egg laying and mating.
A floor management system where 4–6 inches of carbon-rich bedding (pine shavings, straw) are used. Fresh bedding is added regularly and the bottom layers compost in place, generating mild heat in winter.
Salts and minerals (sodium, potassium, chloride) added to drinking water to help birds maintain hydration and electrolyte balance during stress, heat, illness, or transport.
An egg that has been fertilized by a male and has the potential to develop into an embryo if incubated. Visually indistinguishable from unfertile eggs without candling.
The breastbone (sternum) of a bird. Used for body condition scoring — feeling the keel bone helps assess whether a bird is underweight, ideal, or overweight.
The natural process of shedding and regrowing feathers. Typically occurs annually in fall. Production drops significantly during molt. Increasing protein to 24% helps feather regrowth.
A watering system where birds peck at a metal pin to release small drops of water. Most hygienic watering option — no open water surface means less contamination.
A separate, isolated area for sick or injured birds. Should have its own food, water, and be in a warm, quiet location away from the main flock.