Quail not laying eggs: 7 reasons

Button quail (king quail) hens lay tiny, speckled eggs, often surprisingly many for such small birds. So when the eggs stop, or never start, you want to know why.

Most articles about quail laying focus on larger Coturnix quail. Button quail have some differences, but the main causes are similar.

1. They're too young (or getting old)

Button quail mature quickly, but hens need to reach laying age before they start. Very old hens also lay less.

2. Not enough daylight

Like many birds, quail are influenced by day length. Shorter days in fall and winter often mean fewer eggs.

Fix: some keepers provide supplemental lighting to extend the day. Keep a consistent schedule, and remember birds also need a dark rest period.

3. Molting

During a molt, hens put energy into new feathers and may stop laying temporarily.

Signs: feathers on the floor, patchy appearance, new pin feathers.

4. Diet

Laying hens need enough protein and calcium.

Fix:

• Feed a quality game bird or quail feed suitable for layers
• Provide a calcium source such as crushed oyster shell or crushed eggshell
• Don't rely heavily on seeds or treats

5. Stress

Common stressors:

• New environment or recent move
• Predators nearby (cats, dogs, hawks)
• Loud noises, handling
• Overzealous males: too many males or a very persistent male can stress hens

Fix: a quiet, secure enclosure with cover (plants, hides), and a good male-to-female ratio (many keepers use one male per one or more hens).

6. Temperature

Very cold or very hot conditions can reduce laying. Keep them in a comfortable, draft-free space.

7. They're laying, but you're not finding eggs

Button quail don't use nest boxes reliably. They often lay:

• Anywhere on the floor
• Under plants, hay or bedding
• In hidden corners

Eggs are small and well-camouflaged. Look carefully, and check if eggs are being eaten or broken (which can happen with calcium deficiency or boredom).

When to see a vet

• A hen who is straining, sitting puffed up, or has a swollen abdomen (possible egg-binding)
• Weight loss, lethargy, or changes in droppings

FAQ

Why did my button quail stop laying?
Common causes include short days, molting, stress, diet, temperature, and age.

Do button quail need extra light to lay?
Day length strongly affects laying. Some keepers use supplemental lighting in winter.

Where do button quail lay their eggs?
Often anywhere on the floor or hidden under plants and bedding, not in nest boxes.

What should I feed laying button quail?
A quality game bird feed with adequate protein, plus a calcium source like crushed oyster shell.