All About Raising 5 Best Quail Breeds For Meat!

Quail is underrated when you talk about meat production, especially when you compare it to ducks and chickens. However, since you’re a fan of Quail meat, you need to select the right Quail breed for meat production. 

But what are the Best Quail breeds for meat production? Well, my research found 5 significant breeds that offer enough meat and fulfill other purposes. Among them, my favorite pick is Jumbo Coturnix. Besides, normal coturnix, pharaoh, mountain, and Texas A&M Giant are no less to produce meats.

However, I’ll also share raising them with proper care for poultry. So, let’s uncover the facts you need to know for better raising for meats!

5 Best Quail Breeds For Meat

Quail, as small birds with tasty meat, are becoming really popular, and there’s a good reason for it! Their flavorful dark meat is a tasty change from the usual chicken. But, with many Quail breeds available, picking the right one for your table can be a bit tricky.

Here’s a quick and dirty guide to the top 5 meat-producing Quail breeds:

1. Jumbo Coturnix

Jumbo Coturnix Quail, known for their rapid growth, is a popular choice among meat eaters. They mature quickly, usually in 6 to 8 weeks. This is what allows for a timely harvest and makes them an efficient choice for meat production. Here are the essential facts:

• Meat Maven: With a weight of 16 ounces, this robust Coturnix easily takes the title of “most meat per bird.”
• Growth Booster: They’re not as quick as ordinary Coturnix. But they still pack a hearty punch in a decent amount of time.
• Flavor Profile: A moderate, light taste, similar to its smaller cousin.

2. Standard Coturnix

The standard Coturnix Quail is recognized for its prolific egg-laying ability. They can provide a combined benefit of meat and egg production. Their adaptability and small size make them workable for farmers of varied skill levels.

However, let me explain why they’re on the list!

• Faster Grow: These tiny titans mature in 6-8 weeks, making them the Usain Bolt of Quail meat production.
• Easy to Raise: This breed is quite easy to raise for meat. It seems like you feed, and you have the meat too fast. So, it makes them cost-effective and simple to raise.
• Mini Meats: Their individual yield is lower than that of Jumbo Coturnix. But they are still preferred by the people.

You can see the video to know which Coturnix is best to raise based on your purpose.

3. Pharaoh Quail

Pharaoh Quails are known for their tasty meat and unique feathers. These Quails are a great choice for people who want a lot of meat. Here are some important things to know about them:

• Flavorful Drumsticks: Instead of chicken wings, think of Quail drumsticks for a unique taste! Pharaohs have rich, dark meat with a special flavor that adventurous eaters love.
• Easy to Handle: Pharaohs are calm and easy to take care of, unlike some other Quails that are jumpy.
• Takes a Bit of Time: They take a bit longer to grow up, about 10 to 12 weeks, but the delicious taste makes waiting worth it.

4. Mountain Quail

Mountain Quail, a bird native to North America, brings a wild and bold flavor to the table. Even though they take a bit longer to grow than other types, their unique taste and size make them a great choice for special markets.

Here’s a simple breakdown of this meat producer’s feathery friend:

• Meat Yield: They give the most meat of any Quail—up to 20 ounces when fully grown.
• Growth Rate: They take the longest to grow on this list, about 16-20 weeks.
• Flavor: People who know their tastes love strong, game flavors.

5. Texas A&M’s Goliath

Texas A&M Giant Quail is big, just like its name says. These Quails are made for meat, giving you a lot if you want a big harvest. Here are some facts:

• Faster Growing Breed: They’re in between regular and Jumbo Coturnix, giving a good 10-12 ounces of meat. They also grow a bit faster, around 8-10 weeks.
• Gentle Giant: They’re great for new Quail raisers because they’re calm and easy to handle.
• Less Common Critter: You might not find them as easily as regular Coturnix, but their good size and behavior make them worth looking for.

Quail, those tiny birds with tasty meat, are getting really popular, and it’s not surprising! Their delicious dark meat is a great alternative to regular chicken. But with so many types of Quail to choose from, finding the right one for your meal can be tricky.

According to some Quail raisers, Coturnix Quails are like the top athletes in the Quail world. Butlers and Jumbos are also fantastic for meat. People even praise Texas A&M Quails for having more white meat than others.

Now, your AM Whites give you all white meat, and Jumbo Coturnix gives you all dark meat. And guess what? They’re considered the best!

However, this video may give more information about choosing the right Quail for having meat.

How to Choose the Right Quail Breed for Meat Production? 6 Considerable Facts!

Selecting the best Quail breed for meat production is necessary! It all depends on what matters most to you as a poultry expert. Here are some crucial factors to keep in mind when looking for your feathery champion in the meat production stage.

1. Level of Experience

The standard Coturnix and Texas A&M Giant are customizable and simple to use. Mountain Quail necessitates larger enclosures and particular care. So, it all depends on your level of experience. 

If you’re someone experienced in raising quails, Mountain Quails won’t create any further headaches. 

2. Growth Rate

Standard Coturnix matures in 6-8 weeks, making them ideal for quick harvests. Jumbo Coturnix takes 10-12 weeks to mature but comes in a huge 16-ounce size. Pharaoh Quail reaches maturity in 10-12 weeks and has wonderful, black flesh.

On average, 7 to 8 weeks is the pick time to have the meat from quails.

3. Meat Production

With their enormous size, Jumbo Coturnix ruled the chart. The quick development of standard Coturnix entails more frequent harvests. Pharaoh Quail has a good output and a delicious flavor.

Standard Flavor Profile Coturnix and Jumbo Coturnix have diverse flavors. Pharaoh Quail’s distinct flavors entice inquisitive palates.

4. Consideration for Size

Consider the size of the Quail breed. Some, such as Texas A&M Giants, are larger, resulting in more flesh per bird. Check that the size corresponds to the preferences of your target market.

5. Conversion of Feeds

Examine the Quail breed’s feed conversion efficiency. Feed conversion efficiency is critical for cost-effective meat production. Standard Coturnix breeds are well-known for their capacity to convert feed into meat.

6. Availability

Check to see whether the breed you choose is available in your area. Choose widely available breeds to ensure a steady supply for your meat manufacturing operation.

How to Raise Quail for Meat? A Simple Guideline!

Raising Quail for meat can be a satisfying journey, offering a source of delicious and sustainable protein. Here’s a simple guide to help you get started:

How to Make Proper Housing for Quail?

Make sure your birds have enough room. A good rule is 1 square foot per mature Quail and extra space for the young ones.

Choose the right housing, like cages, pens, or aviaries. Cages save space, while pens give more freedom. Consider the weather and predators when picking your setup.

Use comfy bedding like wood shavings or straws to keep your Quail cozy.

What to Feed Quail for Meat Production?

Give your birds complete nutrition with commercial Quail feed. Choose the right feed based on their age and stage of growth. Offer fresh greens and veggies for extra vitamins and minerals.

And make sure they always have clean, fresh water. Change it regularly to keep it clean.

How to Care for Meat-Providing Quail?

Make sure the Quail stays at a temperature of around 65-75°F. Give them 12-14 hours of light every day to grow well and lay eggs. Also, help them stay healthy by keeping their home and bedding clean.

Additional Beneficial Factors Except for Meat Production

Raising Quail goes beyond just tasty meat – it comes with extra perks that go beyond your dinner plate. Here are some cool things to think about when you dive into the world of Quail:

Egg Production

Some Quail, like Coturnix, lay lots of eggs. That means you get fresh, nutritious eggs every day! Think about fluffy omelets and yummy quiches straight from your feathery pals.

Recommended Article: 5 Best Quail Breeds For Eggs

Pest Controllers

Quails love munching on bugs. They’re like natural pest control for your garden! According to SARE, Japanese Quail (Coturnix japonica) works as an organic pest controller in cropping systems. Surprisingly, quails will have some free protein.

Feathery Friends for Bird Show

Quails are lively and curious. Watching them peck, walk around, and take dust baths is like having your mini bird show. It’s fun and can help you relax. Quails have cool personalities and are gentle, making them great companions.

Less Space for Food

Quail needs less space and food compared to bigger poultry. This makes them a sustainable source of protein. Raising your own Quail lets you control what they eat and how they live, ensuring they’re happy and healthy.

Related Readings:

• 5 Largest Domestic Quail Breeds
• Quail Breeds That Are Great For Poultry Keepers
• Quietest Quail Breeds

FAQs

Here are some common questions people ask to know the answer.

Conclusion

In short, picking the right Quail breed for meat involves looking at many things. Deciding on Jumbo or Standard Coturnix brings advantages, whether for fast growth or dual benefits. Each breed, be it Jumbo or Standard Coturnix, has its own positive traits.

You may start on a successful adventure in Quail meat production by studying the specific qualities of each breed. The guidelines I included above are enough to know how to pick the right Quail for meat production. And be sure you follow the raising tips with proper feed and care for beneficial farming for meat production. Happy farming!