Characteristics of the Growing Period of Quail and Rearing Management Methods

The growing period of quail generally refers to the growth stage after the chicks have passed the brooding stage and been successfully taken off heat, up to the point before sexual maturity and the start of laying. It usually begins at around three weeks of age and lasts until about forty days of age, with the exact timing varying slightly depending on breed, season and rearing conditions. This stage is a critical period for the development of the quail's bones, muscles and reproductive system, and whether management is done well or poorly directly affects future laying performance and breeding value.

The obvious characteristics of quail during the growing period are vigorous growth and development, the down gradually being replaced by adult feathers, and steady weight gain. Male quail begin to show more prominent secondary sexual characteristics, with feather color and crowing becoming more obvious. At this time it is relatively easy to distinguish males from females, which makes it convenient to separate them into groups in good time and select breeding quail.

In terms of rearing management, the growing period requires a smooth transition off heat, with temperature gradually reduced to avoid stress caused by sudden changes between hot and cold. As body weight increases, stocking density should be adjusted in good time and the birds appropriately divided into groups to prevent pecking vices caused by overcrowding. The feed should gradually transition from chick quail feed to growing-period feed, with the protein level slightly lower than during the brooding period, while ensuring an adequate supply of clean drinking water. The light period should not be too long or too intense, so as to avoid sexual maturity occurring too early and laying starting too soon, which would affect egg weight and the persistence of laying in the later stage.

For quail kept for breeding purposes, selection can be carried out during the growing period based on appearance characteristics and developmental condition, culling individuals that are stunted, weak or disabled. Before the start of laying, the growing quail should be moved into the laying quail house, switched to layer quail feed or breeder quail feed, and given supplemental lighting gradually, so that the quail make a smooth transition into the laying period.