Farm Animals

Farmed Quail Welfare in Intensive Systems

Quail are increasingly farmed in battery cage conditions with minimal welfare standards. Their small size and rapid production cycle has led to welfare being largely overlooked.

Key Facts

Quail are often housed in barren battery cages with extremely high stocking densities
They require dust bathing and cover for normal behaviour expression
Mortality rates in intensive quail production can be extremely high
Welfare standards for quail lag far behind those for chickens in most countries

Welfare Considerations

Quail welfare is among the most neglected in farmed poultry. Their small size has made them invisible to welfare reform efforts that have advanced standards for chickens. Minimum space, enrichment and handling standards are urgently needed.

What You Can Do

Avoid quail eggs and meat unless from certified higher welfare sources
Advocate for inclusion of quail in poultry welfare legislation
Support animal welfare organisations working to extend protections to all farmed birds