Quail is a small bird of the curlew family, known by its scientific name Coturnix coturnix. It is one of the smallest curlew birds. It inhabits various regions around the world and is a popular breeding bird.
Quail - information and interesting facts
- Appearance: Quails are small birds with a round shape and short tail. They usually have brown plumage with dark and light spots. The body length of a quail is about 17-18 cm, and the weight ranges from 70 to 130 g.
- Diet: Quails are omnivorous. They feed on seeds, fruits, insects, small animals and plants.
- Environment: Quails prefer open areas such as fields, meadows, marshes and steppes. Many quail live in cultivated areas.
- Disposition: Quails are widely distributed throughout the world. In Europe, they are migratory birds that spend the summer in the north of the continent and the winter in the south.
- Reproduction: Quail lay 6 to 18 eggs, which are incubated for about 17-18 days. The female takes care of the young, but after a few days the young quail are able to forage for food on their own.
- Breeding: Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica), closely related to the common quail, are often raised for their eggs and meat. Quail eggs are small but rich in nutrients, and are a popular staple in many cuisines around the world.
Quails, despite being small, are very hardy and can survive in a variety of conditions. Many breeders value them for their productivity and ease of breeding.