Maintain Correct Brooder Temperature

Start the brooder at 95°F (35°C) under the heat source during week one. Reduce by 5°F (3°C) each subsequent week until chicks are fully feathered at around 3–4 weeks, then transition to ambient temperature. Monitor chick behavior as the primary indicator: huddling under the heat means too cold, spreading far away means too hot, and even distribution means the temperature is correct.

Why It Works

Quail chicks grow rapidly and develop thermoregulation ability over roughly four weeks. A gradual temperature reduction matches their increasing feather coverage and metabolic capacity, reducing stress and preventing chilling or overheating — both of which can cause mortality in young quail.

Tips

• Place the thermometer at chick height, not above the brooder, for an accurate reading
• Adjust heat source height rather than wattage for finer temperature control
• Watch for panting or open-mouth breathing as signs of overheating