Rearing Quails for Health and Wealth

In the ever-evolving world of poultry farming, quails have become the hottest birds on the market. Their demand is skyrocketing—and for good reason. Health-conscious consumers are increasingly turning to quail eggs and meat as part of a nutritious and healing diet.

Quail

Why Quails Are the New Gold in Poultry

Quail meat is low in cholesterol, high in protein, and has a rich, savory flavor that many say surpasses chicken. More importantly, it’s rapidly gaining a reputation as a functional food—one that supports the management of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.

For many consumers, quails have become a natural path to wellness. And for agripreneurs, quail farming represents a low-cost, high-return business opportunity that promises both health and wealth.

Quail farmer

Meet Patrick Muya: A Young Farmer Redefining Agribusiness

At just 27 years old, Patrick Muya from Karatina is proving that the future of agribusiness is bright—and youthful. After leaving his job at a large farm in Gatundu, Patrick decided to venture into farming on his own terms.

“I wanted to start a business in agriculture—something my peers often overlook,” Patrick says. “I compared dairy farming and poultry farming. Dairy needed huge capital, and the returns weren’t very encouraging. So, I chose quails.”

That decision marked the start of a journey that would change his life.

Minimal Capital, Maximum Returns

Starting small, Patrick built a simple quail structure that could hold up to 300 birds. Quails don’t need much space—even a small, well-ventilated structure with proper lighting and warmth can support a thriving flock.

Since quails are classified as wild birds in Kenya, Patrick applied for a license from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), which cost only KShs. 500 per year.

Once approved, he bought two-week-old chicks from a licensed breeder. “The demand is unbelievable,” he notes. “I had to wait three months to get my chicks because there was such a long queue.”

Today, Patrick’s 100 quails—a mix of Japanese and local breeds—are thriving. He expects them to start laying eggs within weeks, and his first customers are already lined up in his hometown.

Quail structure

The Numbers That Make Quail Farming Irresistible

Here’s why quail farming is being called the new poultry goldmine:

• Maturity: Quails start laying eggs as early as six weeks old.

• Productivity: Each female lays one egg daily—an incredible yield for such a small bird.

• Profitability: A single egg sells for Kshs. 30–50, while a mature bird can fetch up to KShs. 800.

That means a farmer with 1,000 quails and a 70% egg-laying rate can earn around Kshs. 21,000 per day—translating to a full return on investment in less than a month.

Driven by Passion and Innovation

Patrick attributes his success to passion, curiosity, and the power of digital learning.

“All the knowledge I’ve gathered is from the internet,” he says. “I research every day and document everything in a notebook dedicated to quail farming.”

He believes that young people should stop complaining about low-paying jobs and start exploring opportunities in agriculture—especially in ventures like quail farming that offer both sustainability and profitability.

10 Amazing Health Benefits of Quail Eggs

Quail eggs are more than just food—they’re a superfood packed with nutrients and healing properties. Researchers have linked them to numerous health benefits, including:

1. Helps manage cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and anemia

2. Natural remedy for kidney stones and ulcers

3. Provides anti-inflammatory relief

4. Acts as a natural anti-aging agent

5. Supports weight management

6. Promotes healthy hair

7. Improves skin glow and elasticity

8. Boosts brain development in children

9. Supports fetal development—ideal for pregnant women

10. Enhances sexual vitality and stamina

Experts recommend eating two quail eggs per day for optimal health. They’re rich in protein and vitamins A, B2, B6, B12, D, and E—making them a true gift from nature.

Final Thoughts: A Small Bird with Big Promise

Quail farming is more than just a business—it’s a movement toward healthier living and smarter agriculture. With minimal capital, quick returns, and immense market potential, it’s the perfect venture for aspiring farmers and entrepreneurs alike.

As Patrick Muya’s story shows, with passion, research, and persistence, rearing quails can truly bring both health and wealth.

💡 Ready to start your own quail farming journey?

Begin small, learn continuously, and watch your flock—and your profits—grow.