How Long Do Quail Lay Eggs? A Complete Timeline

Ilustration Qualil Coturnix Japonica

Quail are known as one of the most productive egg-laying birds in the world. Despite their small size, they can produce an impressive number of eggs in a relatively short time. However, many beginners still ask the same question: how long do quail lay eggs, and when does their production start to decline?

This article explains the complete egg-laying timeline of quail, from their first egg to the end of their productive period, using practical observations from real quail farming experience.

When Do Quail Start Laying Eggs?

Most egg-laying quail, especially Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica), begin laying eggs at a very young age compared to chickens.

Average Age of First Egg

• Early starters: 35–38 days
• Normal average: 40–45 days
• Late starters: up to 50 days

Quail that start laying early usually come from good genetics, receive proper nutrition, and are kept under stable lighting conditions.

The Peak Egg Production Phase

Once quail begin laying eggs, their production increases rapidly. This phase is considered the most profitable period in quail farming.

Peak Production Timeline

• Starts: 6–8 weeks of age
• Peak performance: 2–6 months
• Egg frequency: nearly one egg per day

During this phase, healthy quail can lay eggs consistently if feed quality, lighting, and stress levels are well managed.

How Long Do Quail Lay Eggs Consistently?

Under proper management, quail can maintain good egg production for a surprisingly long time.

Productive Egg-Laying Duration

• High productivity: up to 8 months
• Moderate productivity: 9–12 months
• Declining phase: after 12 months

Most farmers consider quail economically productive for about 10–12 months. After that, egg quantity and quality usually decline.

Signs That Quail Are Nearing the End of Their Laying Cycle

Quail do not stop laying eggs suddenly. There are gradual signs that indicate declining productivity.

Common Indicators

• Egg size becomes smaller or irregular
• Eggshells become thinner
• Egg-laying frequency decreases
• Birds appear less active

At this stage, many farmers decide to replace older quail with younger layers to maintain steady production.

Factors That Affect How Long Quail Lay Eggs

The egg-laying lifespan of quail is influenced by several key factors.

1. Nutrition Quality

Quail require feed with at least 20–24% protein during the laying phase. Calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D are essential for eggshell strength.

2. Lighting Schedule

Consistent lighting of 14–16 hours per day helps maintain hormonal balance and supports continuous egg production.

3. Stress Management

Noise, overcrowding, temperature changes, and poor ventilation can shorten the productive lifespan of quail.

4. Genetics

High-quality breeding stock generally produces eggs longer and more consistently than random or mixed strains.

Can Quail Lay Eggs Every Day?

Yes, during their peak phase, quail can lay eggs almost daily. However, expecting perfect daily production year-round is unrealistic.

Natural fluctuations occur due to weather, feed changes, and aging. Even well-managed flocks may experience short production drops.

How Many Eggs Can One Quail Lay in a Lifetime?

On average, one healthy quail can lay:

• 250–300 eggs in the first year
• Up to 350 eggs under optimal conditions

This makes quail one of the most efficient egg producers relative to body size.

When Should Quail Be Replaced?

From a commercial standpoint, most quail farmers replace laying quail after 12–14 months of age. Beyond this point, feed costs often exceed egg output.

Small-scale or hobby farmers may keep quail longer, but for profit-focused operations, early replacement ensures better efficiency.

Final Thoughts

So, how long do quail lay eggs? The short answer is: from about 6 weeks of age up to 12 months, with peak production in the first 6 months.

By providing proper nutrition, stable lighting, clean housing, and low-stress conditions, quail can remain productive and profitable throughout their laying cycle.

Understanding this timeline allows farmers to plan better, reduce losses, and maximize egg production from every bird.