Commercial quail farming for both egg and meat production is a promising and profitable venture. Quails are small birds that are easy to raise and have a high reproduction rate, making them an excellent choice for small-scale and commercial poultry farming. This guide provides a detailed look at starting a profitable quail farm, covering everything from farm types and costs to the best quail breeds, food requirements, vaccination schedules, disease treatments, and more. Specific advice for Bangladeshi farmers is also included to ensure success in local conditions.
Table of Contents
Understanding Commercial Quail Farming
Commercial quail farming involves raising quails in a controlled environment to maximize egg and meat production efficiently and profitably. With proper planning, investment, and management, quail farming can be a highly rewarding business.
Types of Quail Farming
1. Intensive Farming: Quails are raised in cages or enclosures with controlled feeding and health management to maximize production efficiency.
2. Semi-Intensive Farming: Combines controlled feeding and grazing, allowing quails to forage freely for part of the day.
3. Extensive Farming: Quails graze freely over large areas, which is less costly but requires more land and a natural environment.
Cost and Area Requirements
Initial Investment
– Land: A small plot of land (e.g., 0.5 acres) is needed for a small-scale farm with about 500 quails. Land costs vary by location.
– Housing: Constructing cages or enclosures with proper ventilation, feeding areas, and nesting boxes can cost around BDT 200,000-300,000.
– Equipment: Feeders, waterers, and healthcare equipment can cost around BDT 50,000-100,000.
– Quails: The cost of quails varies based on breed, age, and purpose (egg or meat production).
Total Initial Cost
For a small-scale farm with 500 quails, the initial investment can range from BDT 300,000 to BDT 400,000.
10 Million Profit Poultry Farming : Visit Now
Best Quail Breeds for Profit
1. Japanese Quail (Coturnix japonica): Known for high egg production. Cost: BDT 50-80 per quail. Available at local poultry markets and online.
2. Bobwhite Quail (Colinus virginianus): Good for meat production. Cost: BDT 80-120 per quail. Available at specialized poultry breeders.
3. King Quail (Excalfactoria chinensis): Dual-purpose breed, good for both meat and eggs. Cost: BDT 70-100 per quail. Available at local farms and breeders.
Food Requirements for Quail Farming
Quality and Quantity
– Chicks (0-6 weeks): High-protein starter feed. Quantity: 0.1-0.2 kg per chick per week. Cost: BDT 40 per kg.
– Growers (6-12 weeks): Balanced grower feed. Quantity: 0.2-0.3 kg per quail per week. Cost: BDT 35 per kg.
– Layers (12+ weeks): High-calcium layer feed. Quantity: 0.3-0.4 kg per quail per week. Cost: BDT 30 per kg.
Total Feed Cost
For 500 quails, the total feed cost is approximately BDT 250,000 annually.
1000K Profit Goat Farm : Visit Now
Vaccination Schedule and Costs
1. Newcastle Disease: Annually. Cost: BDT 5 per dose.
2. Fowl Pox: Every 6 months. Cost: BDT 7 per dose.
3. Marek’s Disease: Annually. Cost: BDT 6 per dose.
Total Vaccination Cost
For 500 quails, the total vaccination cost is approximately BDT 9,000 annually.
Common Diseases and Treatments
1. Coccidiosis: Treatment with anticoccidial drugs. Cost: BDT 10 per quail.
2. Salmonellosis: Treatment with antibiotics. Cost: BDT 15 per quail.
3. Avian Influenza: Treatment and prevention with antiviral drugs. Cost: BDT 20 per quail.
Earnings Potential
With proper management, a quail farm can be highly profitable. On average, each quail can lay 200-300 eggs per year. If eggs are sold at BDT 5 per egg, the annual income from 500 quails can be around BDT 500,000-750,000. Additionally, meat production can significantly increase profitability.
Advice for Bangladeshi Farmers for Quail Farming
1. Choose the Right Breed: Select high-yield breeds like Japanese or Bobwhite Quails for maximum profit.
2. Invest in Quality Feed: Ensure quails receive balanced nutrition for optimal growth and production.
3. Follow Vaccination Schedules: Prevent diseases by adhering to recommended vaccination schedules.
4. Maintain Hygiene: Keep the farm and enclosures clean to prevent diseases and ensure high-quality products.
5. Seek Professional Advice: Consult with veterinarians and poultry farming experts for guidance and support.
Conclusion
Starting a quail farm for both egg and meat production in Bangladesh can be a profitable venture with proper planning, investment, and management. By choosing the right breeds, providing quality feed, adhering to vaccination schedules, and maintaining hygiene, you can ensure the success of your quail farming business.
For more detailed information and resources, visit the [Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute]() and the [Food and Agriculture Organization].
