We have had thoughts of getting some quail for some time but never acted on them. However, today we collected seven quails: six females and one male. It was a bit of a drive across to the far east of Suffolk, but at least we can now say we have been to Uggshall.
They are Japanese quail, otherwise known as Coturnix quail. The smaller European quail, which is native to Britain and now relatively scarce, is Coturnix coturnix. Japanese quail derive from Asia, hence Coturnix japonica.
We want them primarily for their eggs. It is very rare that we have quail eggs as Waitrose is not our natural habitat. And we might quail at the price. But like, say asparagus, its nice to be able to have a 'speciality' food occasionally, especially if you have produced it yourself.
With the decision to acquire some quail, it meant another housing project, so over the last couple of days I have put together a quail house made from a combination of bits I already had and some additional timber bought for the job.
I will try quail eggs sometime. Perhaps. A lady who lives near our Chapel sells them sometimes.
ReplyDeleteSome people who keep hens will also keep quail and sell the eggs at their gate, usually quite cheap.
DeleteQuail eggs, hardboiled, with celery salt, was an Easter treat. My brother had a plan to make a miniature breakfast with quail eggs and cherry tomatoes, but hadn't solved the miniature bacon rasher, last I heard a. I must ask him.
ReplyDeleteI'll try them with celery salt when our quails start to lay. In the past its normally as a component of a mix salad.
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