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The main points of feeding and management techniques for the waterfowl during the lactation period
From the litter of the mother's family to multiple generations of litters during lactation (late April to late June), this is a critical period for farmers. The main focus during this time is to ensure the survival rate of the young and support their healthy growth. Achieving these goals depends heavily on the mother’s milk production capacity and the quality of artificial feeding practices. Drawing from successful experiences across the country, the author has compiled key feeding and management techniques for raising quail chicks during the lactation phase.
**Feeding During Lactation**
**1.1 Nutritional Requirements**
The diet during this stage should maintain the same nutritional level as during pregnancy. It’s important to avoid frequent changes in animal feed. To boost milk production, protein-rich feeds like cow’s milk and eggs should be increased, along with a moderate amount of fat. High-quality animal-based feeds such as fish, meat, liver, eggs, and milk should make up more than 80% of the ration. Additionally, each day, they should receive 1–1.5g of cod liver oil, 5–8g of yeast, 1g of bone meal, 0.7g of salt, and 20–30mg of vitamin C. The total daily intake should exceed 300g, with at least 30–40g of protein.
**1.2 Feeding Schedule**
It is best to feed the mother quail three times a day. The feed pellets should be small and soft so that she can easily consume them. The quantity of feed should be adjusted based on the number of offspring and the mother’s condition, rather than being given equally to all. Clean water must always be available, especially for mothers producing large amounts of milk.
**1.3 Introducing Solid Food**
By the third week, the mother’s milk may no longer meet the growing needs of the chicks. At this point, solid food can be introduced gradually. From the third week onward, small amounts of fish, meat, liver, egg yolk, a bit of cod liver oil, and yeast can be offered. Avoid overfeeding initially to prevent false mastitis caused by reduced breastfeeding. As the chicks grow, the amount of solid food can be increased accordingly.
**2. Management and Technical Points During Lactation**
**2.1 Enhancing Survival Rates**
Aberdeen quails grow rapidly, and their development is unique. Newborns typically weigh 8–12g, with a body length of 6–8cm. Their eyes are closed, and they have no teeth. Their fur is sparse, grayish-red, and the skin on their neck is thick and wrinkled. They rely entirely on maternal care during the first few weeks. By day 5, their fur darkens slightly, and their claws begin to harden. By day 10, the fur becomes longer, and the ear holes become visible. By day 15, the fur reaches about 4mm, and the nose develops black spots. At 20 days, the fur is around 6–7mm, and the testes become noticeable. By day 30, they start eating solid food, and their teeth begin to appear. By day 40, their fur starts to grow clearly, and they are nearly fully developed.
Due to their rapid growth, proper nutrition is essential. However, their ability to regulate body temperature and adapt to external environments is still limited, making them prone to illness and death. Mortality rates during lactation range from 10% to 20%, with 70% of deaths occurring within the first five days. Therefore, meticulous care and attention are crucial for improving the survival rate of the young quails.