Feed Appropriate High-Protein Layer Feed

Switch laying quails to a game bird layer feed with 20-24% protein and adequate calcium. Starter or grower feeds lack the protein and mineral profile needed for sustained egg production. Provide oyster shell grit free-choice in a separate dish so hens can self-regulate calcium intake.

Why It Works

Each quail egg requires significant protein and roughly 0.5 g of calcium for shell formation. A hen laying nearly daily cannot meet these demands on low-protein feed. Game bird layer formulas are specifically balanced for the higher metabolic requirements of laying quail compared to chicken layer feeds, which only contain 16% protein.

Tips

• Avoid chicken layer feed — its 16% protein is insufficient for quail
• Offer oyster shell separately rather than mixing it into feed, allowing individual birds to consume as needed
• Ensure feed stays dry and fresh; moldy feed suppresses appetite and egg production