BUTTON QUAIL  

The button quail is the smallest of the quails reaching a max size of about four inches long and have an average lifespan of about four to five years with proper care. They are native to Australia, Southeast Asia, India, and surrounding areas. Button quails come in different colors such as brown, silver, white and various other color mutations. Button quails are very social and should be kept in pairs or groups.

Diet

A main diet of fortified bird seed mix or pellets can be supplemented with small amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables: apple, cooked broccoli, beans, cooked kale, dandelion, orange, peppers, grapes, squash, shredded carrot, banana and others. Quails do not need grit but do need fresh water at all times, a vitamin supplement and a cuttle bone or mineral block to provide calcium and help keep the beak trim.  

Housing  

Button quails, like all quails, are flightless and unable to perch. They should be housed in a roomy cage with at least four square feet of solid floor space for a pair. Make sure the enclosure has either a closed top or is tall enough for your quail not to jump out. These little birds are known for their ability to jump, when scared they will fly straight up into the air; very tall open pens or cages designed for small animals such as guinea pigs or rabbits make ideal button quail homes. Button quails are quite shy and should be provided a few hiding spots to feel secure such as decorative plastic or silk plants, small boxes, or small animal hideaways.

Care

Basic cage care includes daily cleaning of the water and food dishes. Change paper bottoms daily and litter coverings every 2-3 days. Clean and disinfect the cage weekly. Wash and completely dry toys, houses, and decorations whenever they become soiled.

Grooming

Though quails are masters of keeping their feathers looking clean they need a warm water birdbath or misting shower once a week. Long toenails may get caught on fabrics and affect their walking and should be trimmed regularly.

Health

Signs of illness to be aware of are if a bird is sitting at the bottom of the cage, shows a lack of activity, the feathers are ruffled, nasal discharge/sneezing, reduced appetite or if it shows any signs of weight loss (weight loss can be quick and fatal). Consult an avian veterinarian if any of these signs are noticed. Some common illnesses and injuries are: broken wings or legs, cuts and open wounds, overgrown beaks and nails, lameness or sore feet, feather picking, heat stroke, shock, concussions, egg binding, indigestion, eye disease, mites, watery eyes, colds, tumors, coccidiosis, French molt, goiter, E. coli, Aspergillosis, conjunctivitis, constipation, diarrhea and arthritis.