Quails, like many other birds, take dust baths as a natural and instinctive behaviour. I spend a bit of time watching mine and they like nothing more than flapping about in dry earth, preferably in the sun.
You should provide a dust bathing area for your quail. I use plain dry sand and add a little wood ash and diatomaceous earth to the mix to help with parasite control. You can use a large container to make a dust bath or just dig a shallow hole in a dry piece of ground.
Below: A quail having a dust bath. This hen took over 11 minutes in the bath.
To take a dust bath, quail will find a dry, dusty area of ground. They will then start to flutter their wings and shake their bodies, which will cause the dust to fly up and coat their feathers. Quail may also rub their heads and beaks in the dust to clean them.
Place the dust bath in a sheltered area where the quail will not be disturbed. You should also clean the dust bath regularly to prevent it from becoming contaminated with faeces or parasites.
Why Quail Take Dust Baths:
Cleanliness: Dust bathing helps quails maintain good hygiene. By rolling in dust or fine dry soil, they can absorb excess oils and moisture on their feathers. This process helps remove dirt, debris, and parasites that may be clinging to their feathers. This keeps the feathers clean and in good condition, which is important for flight and insulation.
- Parasite Control: Dust bathing is an essential part of parasite control for quails. When quails roll in dust, the fine particles get into their feathers and come into contact with external parasites like mites and lice. These parasites are often killed or repelled by the abrasive and desiccating action of the dust, keeping the quail's skin and feathers healthier.
- Well-being: It is important for their overall welfare. Happy birds will be easier to care for and will be more productive.
How Quail Take a Dust Bath:
Location: Quails typically choose a designated dust bath area in their enclosure. This area is often a shallow depression in the ground or a specially provided container filled with dust or fine sand.
- Flapping and Rolling: Quails will start by flapping their wings and then rolling around in the dust or sand. They use their beaks to work the dust into their feathers thoroughly.
- Vigour: Quails can get quite vigorous during their dust baths, vigorously shaking and flapping their wings to ensure the dust reaches all parts of their body.
- Sunlight: Some quails may prefer to take their dust baths in sunny areas, as the sunlight can help in drying and warming their feathers after the bath.
A dust bath is often part of a wider feather care program that includes preening.
