Poultry: Game Birds and Ratites
The production of game birds and ratites has become very popular within the last 10-20 years. The knowledge base about these birds is rapidly expanding and will continue as the industries develop. Widely diverse practices are used that vary depending on the species of birds produced and the purpose for its production.
Emphasis at this web site is directed to the production of bobwhite quail, although information is also made available on other upland game birds and Ratites. Bobwhite quail are primarily produced for eventual slaughter (consumption) or release on shooting preserves, where they are eventually hunted for sport. The type of bird desired will dictate the type of management that is required. Although several publications address topics relating to habitat management, the primary emphasis of this site will be upon commercial production of the birds.
This site offers basic materials that answer many questions that producers initially ask. Additional information is available from industry associations, government agencies, and private web sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
My
bobwhite quail appear sick and are losing weight (especially in breast
muscles) and the mortality is very high. What is wrong?
What
causes the lesions and scabby areas on the feet and toes of my bobwhite
quail?
How
can I improve the quality of feathers on my bobwhite quail?
What
feeds should I offer my bobwhite quail?
Should
I feed medications in my game bird feeds?
What
feed ingredients are used in quail diets?
How
much floor space should I provide for my bobwhite quail?
What
temperatures are recommended for brooding quail?
How
do I get rid of mites and lice from by game birds?
How
do I treat my game birds to rid them of intestinal worms?
Publications
MSUcares
Poultry publications
Strip
Disking and Other Valuable Bobwhite Quail Management Techniques is
a guide for developing and maintaining proper quail habitat.
Other Information
Sanitation
- Cleaning and Disinfectants addresses
the concerns and procedures for maintaining a sanitary and low- disease
environment in the hatchery and other poultry facilities.
Diseases
of Poultry is
a manual that discusses the many diseases in poultry and gamebird
populations. Includes symptoms, causes, treatments and preventative
measures.
Solutions
for Poultry is
a compilation of many treatments used by the poultry producer to treat
conditions or improve the productive status of the flock.
Feeding
Gamebirds is
a discussion of nutritional concerns that the game bird producter
should address when producing healthy birds. Includes diets formulated
for various ages of quail.
Ostrich
Production is
a guide for the beginning ostrich producer.
Emu
Production is
a basic guide for the first-time emu producer.
The
Incubation of Ratite Eggs adds
insite into the requirements for properly incubating ratite eggs.
Ratite
Nutrition and Feeding discusses
the nutritional needs of ratites (ostrich, emu, rhea, etc.).
