Although pairs may begin building a nest and laying during April, covey breakup is often not complete until mid-May. Nesting activity usually lasts from early May through September. Clutches of about 13 eggs are laid in nests located on the ground. Hens incubate most nests, but cocks will readily assume incubation duties when hens are not available. Typically, only one out of every four nests will hatch.
Nests fall prey to many egg-eating predators as well as forest and farm management activities.
Quail overcome poor nest success by renesting after a nest is destroyed. Occasionally, during periods of favorable nesting conditions, quail may raise two broods. Eggs hatch after 23 days of incubation. They are immediately able to move around on their own and feed themselves. However, they require close brooding by adults to keep warm.