Compare Bobwhite Quail to Coturnix Quail to Button Quail
Quail are fascinating little birds, and if you’ve ever thought about raising them, you’ve probably noticed there are several types that people keep. The three you’ll hear about most often are Coturnix quail (Japanese quail), Bobwhite quail (Northern Bobwhite), and Button quail (Chinese Painted quail). While they’re all “quail,” each species is unique in how it’s raised, what it’s used for, and how it behaves. Let’s break down the differences.
Egg Production
Coturnix: These are the egg machines of the quail world. A good Coturnix hen can lay 250–300 eggs a year, and they start as early as 6–8 weeks of age. Their speckled eggs are a favorite for pickling and gourmet dishes.
Bobwhite: Much more seasonal. They may give you around 100 eggs per year, but only during the breeding season, and they don’t even start until about 6 months old.
Button Quail: The tiniest eggs you’ve ever seen! They do lay, but not in a productive way — just small clutches. Their eggs are mostly ornamental or for fun, not for eating.
Growth & Maturity
Coturnix: Fast growers, ready for processing or egg production within a couple of months.
Bobwhite: Slower to mature, often taking several months before you see eggs or adult size.
Button Quail: Very small and ornamental; they mature quickly but are not raised for meat or eggs.
Temperament & Handling
Coturnix: Docile, calm, and relatively easy to handle. Perfect for beginners and backyard setups.
Bobwhite: High-strung, flighty, and easily stressed. They do best in large aviaries where they can act like wild game birds.
Button Quail: Adorable but tiny and delicate. They’re often kept in pairs or trios as pets or for decoration in aviaries.
Purpose & Use
Coturnix: The most versatile — raised for eggs, meat, and research. Great for small farms and backyard keepers.
Bobwhite: Primarily raised for hunting preserves, wildlife release, and conservation. Not efficient for eggs or meat.
Button Quail: Mostly kept as pets or ornamental birds. Their small size and unique calls make them fun additions to mixed aviaries.
Housing & Care
Coturnix: Thrive in cages, backyard pens, or commercial setups. They don’t fly much and are relatively low-maintenance.
Bobwhite: Need more space, flight-proof aviaries, and lots of cover to stay calm and healthy.
Button Quail: Do best in small, safe enclosures with plenty of ground cover. Because of their size, they’re very vulnerable to injury or being picked on by larger birds.
Quick Summary
Coturnix are the practical choice if you want eggs and meat fast.
Bobwhites are the “wild type” for gamebird enthusiasts, hunters, or conservationists.
Button quail are the fun-sized, ornamental version — more for enjoyment than production.
Final Thoughts:
If you’re looking for productivity, go with Coturnix. If your interest is in raising a traditional game bird or contributing to conservation, Bobwhite is your bird. And if you simply want a cute, tiny quail as a conversation starter or pet, Button quail will steal the show. For more information on button quail click here. For Coturnix Quail here. I do not raise bobwhite quail.