Commercial quail farming faces significant welfare challenges, with reform efforts focusing on stocking density, enrichment, and slaughter methods.
Quail welfare has received less research attention than chickens or turkeys despite their large production numbers. Evidence shows that enriched environments with perches, dustbathing substrate, and reduced stocking density significantly reduce stress behaviors and mortality. The high-stress genetic lines selected for rapid growth show higher rates of cardiovascular problems and skeletal issues, paralleling broiler welfare concerns. Welfare reform advocates are pushing for mandatory enrichment, stocking limits, and improved slaughter standards.