Jumbo Celadon Quail

Physical Characteristics

How many females to a male

Jumbo Celadon quail, like other Coturnix varieties, thrive with a 1 male to 4–5 females ratio because it ensures high fertility while minimizing stress and injury. Males can be overly active breeders, so having more females spreads out mating, reducing feather loss and exhaustion in hens. This ratio also lowers male aggression, especially in colony settings, and helps maintain a calm, productive breeding group.

Size

Jumbo Celadon Quail are larger than standard quail breeds, typically weighing between 300-400 grams when fully grown. They measure approximately 20-25 centimeters (8-10 inches) in length, and 12-15 cm in height.

Appearance

They exhibit a variety of color variations, often featuring shades of celadon (bluish-green) on their feathers, which gives them their name. Their plumage can vary in patterns and markings, adding to their aesthetic appeal.

Lifespan

The lifespan of Jumbo Celadon Quail can range from 2 to 5 years in captivity with proper care and nutrition.

Habitat

Requirements

Provide a spacious enclosure or aviary that allows for natural behaviors and ample room for movement. A minimum of 1 square meter per pair is recommended to ensure they have enough space to roam and explore.

Use a substrate like sand, wood shavings, or grass that allows for natural scratching and dust bathing behaviors.

Ensure the enclosure is secure to prevent escape and protect from predators, as quail can be skittish and may attempt to fly away if frightened.

Diet

Primary Diet

Offer a balanced diet of commercial game bird feed formulated for quails, supplemented with fresh greens, vegetables, and occasional treats like mealworms or small insects.

Water

Fresh, clean water should always be available in shallow dishes to prevent spills and keep the quail hydrated.

Social Behavior

They are active foragers and enjoy scratching and pecking at the ground, so providing a suitable substrate and space for these behaviors is important. Jumbo Celadon Quail are social birds and should ideally be kept in pairs or small groups to prevent loneliness and encourage natural behaviors. 1 male must have ca. 4 females.

Handling

Jumbo Celadon Quail are generally calm and social birds, making them enjoyable to observe and interact with. They are less flighty compared to some other quail species, which makes them easier to handle.

Health

Clean Environment

Maintain a clean and sanitary environment by regularly cleaning the enclosure to prevent the buildup of waste and bacteria.

Health Checks

Monitor their health regularly, checking for signs of illness or injury. Provide appropriate veterinary care if needed.

History

Origins

The ancestors of the Jumbo Celadon Quail are the Common Quail, a species with a long history of domestication, particularly in Asia and Europe. These quails were originally bred for their meat and eggs.

Over time, breeders began selectively breeding quails for specific traits such as size, egg color, and temperament. This practice has been common in aviculture and agriculture to enhance desirable characteristics.

Introduction to Aviculture

The unique characteristics of Jumbo Celadon Quail, such as their size and egg color, have made them popular among quail enthusiasts and hobbyists. Their relatively calm demeanor and attractive appearance add to their appeal as pets and for small-scale egg production.

They are also popular in aviculture for their distinctive eggs and gentle nature, making them suitable as pets and for educational purposes.

Breeding

Breeding Season

Jumbo Celadon Quail can breed year-round if conditions are ideal, with a peak in spring and summer. Lighting to stimulate breeding, provide 14-16 hours of light per day.

Nesting

Females will look for secluded, sheltered spots to lay their eggs. Provide straw, hay, or soft grasses for nesting.

Quail Chick Care

Incubation

Use an incubator set to 37.5°C (99.5°F) with 45-50% humidity. Turn the eggs at least 1-3 times a day. Eggs typically take 17-18 days to hatch. Increase humidity to 65-70% as hatching approaches.

0-6 Weeks

Quail chicks are precocial and can move around shortly after hatching. They need a brooder with heat, food, and water. Use a shallow dish or poultry waterer to prevent drowning. Then wait until they are old enough to join the adults.

Environment: Keep the brooder clean and dry with appropriate bedding

Joining the adults

Ensure Full Feathering

Make sure the chicks are fully feathered and can maintain their body temperature without the need for a brooder.

Size and Strength

Chicks should be nearly the same size as the adults to avoid being bullied. This usually happens around 6-8 weeks.

Observe Behavior

Watch for signs of aggression or bullying from the adults. If the chicks are significantly smaller or weaker, they may need more time before integration.