We raise both Coturnix and Northern Bobwhite quail on our farm in Mayo, FL. They are both small, quiet birds, but they fit very different goals. Here is how they compare.
Coturnix quail: the fast starter
- Eggs hatch in about 17 to 18 days.
- Hens usually start laying around 6 to 8 weeks old.
- A healthy hen can lay close to an egg a day in her prime, with enough daylight.
- Calm enough for cages and small backyard setups.
- Comes in many colors, like our Jumbo and Sunset Mix lines.
Coturnix are the usual pick for eggs, meat and a quick start. In many states they are treated like poultry, but rules vary, so check your state.
Northern Bobwhite: the native game bird
- Eggs hatch in about 23 to 24 days.
- Hens are slower to mature and lay mostly in spring and summer.
- Flightier birds that do best with more room and cover.
- Popular for dog training, release programs and people who want a native bird.
Bobwhite are a native game bird, and many states require a permit or license to keep or release them. Check with your state wildlife agency before you buy.
Quick comparison
- Best for eggs: Coturnix
- Best for a fast first hatch: Coturnix
- Best for training dogs or a native flock: Bobwhite
- Easiest for small spaces: Coturnix
Hatching eggs from our farm
- 12 Coturnix Quail Fertile Hatching Eggs – $11.99
- 48 Jumbo Coturnix Quail Fertile Hatching Eggs – $43.99
- 12 Sunset Mix Quail Fertile Hatching Eggs – $14.99
- 12 Northern Bobwhite Quail Hatching Eggs – $12.99
- 24 Northern Bobwhite Quail Hatching Eggs – $26.99
We raise our Coturnix and Northern Bobwhite quail ourselves in Mayo, FL, and our flock is NPIP certified. Egg orders over $40 ship free. Free shipping is for eggs only; supplies ship from the vendor with the vendor's shipping.
Want the full picture first? Our Northern Bobwhite & Coturnix Quail Essentials Guide covers both birds.
Learn more on our Coturnix Quail and Bobwhite Quail pages, browse Poultry Supplies and Hatching Time Gear, or read our quail care guide.
Shop Hatching Time quail gear: 4kbowen.com/s/hatchingtime
More quail guides:
- How to Incubate Quail Eggs: Day-by-Day
- How Many Quail Eggs Should You Order?
- Quail Housing: Cages, Coops and Space per Bird
- Feeding Quail: Starter, Grower and Layer Protein
Every purchase supports a disabled-veteran, family-owned company.
