Coturnix Color Varieties

Coturnix quail (also known as Japanese quail or Coturnix japonica) don’t come in different “breeds” the way chickens do. They’re all the same species — but they do come in a wonderful variety of natural colors and plumage patterns thanks to selective breeding over generations.

From the classic wild-type browns (often called Pharaoh or Browns) to beautiful golds, whites, tuxedos, and more, every bird you see here is a Japanese Coturnix quail. These are simply different color varieties of the exact same bird.

We’ve been exploring several varieties and have chosen three that we will dedicate our efforts to specialize in at our micro-hatchery. Our choices have been based on three main characteristics: size of the bird, size of the egg and bird temperament. 

Below are the three varieties we are focusing on sharing and making available.  

Jumbo Brown or Pharaoh - this is the most common Coturnix Quail variety. They have a classic wild-type plumage which is dappled dark brown, buff and cream on their backs. Females have a tan/speckled breast while the males have a reddish-brown or rust colored chest. Typical weight is 10-16 oz (about twice the size of standard size Coturnix.) As with most Coturnix quail, the hens will begin laying between 6 and 8 weeks and will lay 250 to 300 eggs per year. Egg sizes will vary slightly from about 12 to 15 grams, sometimes a little more. 

 

 

Jumbo Red Pansy - Great dual purpose quail with hens often reaching 14–15 oz and males slightly smaller, around 12.5+ oz. They produce large, cream-and-brown speckled eggs, with hens capable of laying over 300 eggs per year and starting as early as 6 to weeks of age. As a feather-sexable variety, males are easy to identify with their bright red heads. In general, they are a lighter ‘ginger’ color.

 

Jumbo German Pansy -"Pansy" is a specific mutation (often called Rotkopf) that results in a distinct, attractive feather pattern. Characterized by a white or light yellow base color featuring dark, "calico" black blotches. They are often feather-sexable at three weeks, with males displaying a distinct red/dark head and females having a more blended, muted head. The hens will also lay from 250 - 300 eggs per year and as early as 6 to 8 weeks of age. These are another nice temperament bird. 

 

We are currently selling live chicks as they are available and hope to be able to offer hatching eggs in the next couple of months. We sell in person at Collinsville Trade Day in Collinsville, Alabama every Saturday. We are located in booth #79 (not on 'Animal Hill'). Just look for the blue "QUAIL" banners at our little quail corner. 

Come by and see live birds for purchase or pre-order. We would love to talk quail with you and help you think through your set up, desired quail and number, along with any other questions you might have about raising or processing. Quail are such a fun and satisfying addition to any homestead or backyard beginning.