Supplemental Feeding
Winter
is a challenging time for Quail
There are two scientific views on supplemental feeding: Does
supplemental feeding merely provide a predictable and accessible
buffet for predators or do the benefits on quail health outweigh
the losses expected from predation around the feeders?
Research suggests that the benefits of supplemental feeding
can substantially improve the numbers and quality of your quail
population. Additionally, losses due to predation around the
feeders can be reduced or prevented when feeders are placed
correctly. Numerous feeders should be used instead of just
a few. By placing up to one feeder for every ten acres you
are increasing the number of places a predator must strike
in order to be successful. You are also increasing the number
of places a quail can go to safely feed. Feeders should never
be placed out in the open, but instead should be placed in
protective cover. This reduces the effectiveness of predators
should they stumble upon one of the feeding sites.
Research proves supplemental feeding can increase Quail survival and
reproduction
From: Tall Timbers Research Station Newsletter, Spring
2000
Dr. Bill Palmer, Tall Timbers Research Station,
Tallahassee, FL
Supplemental Feeding Research Continues
In 1999, we monitored survival and reproduction of bobwhite on
six sites, three with and three without supplemental feeding. Supplemental
feeding occurred between March and September by spreading milo every two weeks
and by providing a formulated laying diet in feeders (one feeder per 10 acres).
By monitoring over 180 bobwhite using radio-telemetry, we determined significantly
improved survival and reproduction of fed sites. Incubation of nests began
one month earlier on fed sites (range 27 to 54 days earlier on fed sites) and
nest productivity was three times greater on fed sites. To date, our information
strongly suggests that year-round feeding of grain improves survival and reproduction
of quail and may reduce impacts of poor weather on quail populations
 WMT's
exclusive Game Bird Feeder
In order to take advantage of the benefits of supplemental
feeding, we at QRT have designed a waterproof polyethelene
quail feeder. The first of its kind, QRT's Quail Feeder enables
you to feed not only different size and types of seed, but
also manufactured feed, such as the formulated laying diet
mentioned above.
Click here to find out about the QRT Quail Feeder! |