These brooders can be made of plywood, sturdy sheet metal or even an aquarium. A source of heat can be provided by a heat lamp or custom heating element with a thermostat. Box Type Brooders are much more effective at controlling heat and are much easier to keep clean. When considering a material for the bottom of the brooder, ensure that only material is used that will allow adequate traction for the young quail to walk on. DO NOT use materials that are slippery, such as, newspaper.
Commercial feeds are available from local farm feed stores.
When preparing feed for young quail - it is important to grind the feed to a smooth, fine texture. This will allow the quail to consume the feed without choking on large pieces. As the young quail develop and grow - it is necessary to reduce the temperature in the brooder each week. A rule of thumb is to reduce the temperature 5 degrees each week. Coturnix quail mature at 6 weeks, so temperature can be reduced faster than for Bobwhite quail.