Coturnix: Why the funny name?

COTURNIX FAQs

Why the funny name?

Coturnix is the Latin word for quail! Japanese Coturnix quail (the kind we raise) are officially called Coturnix Japonica, but just Coturnix for short.

Where are they from?

Coturnix are part of a group of migratory quail found in Europe, Asia, and Africa called Old World Quail. They were domesticated in Japan thousands of years ago.

How are they different from other quail?

Coturnix are more closely related to chickens than they are to the quail found in North America (Gambel’s, Valley, California, and Bobwhite). Coturnix are in the same family as pheasants, peacocks, turkeys, and chickens.

How are they used?

Coturnix are raised around the world for meat and eggs. They are also widely used in scientific research. Fun fact: They are the only animal from Earth to have been born (hatched) in space - see video!

How long do they live?

 They live 2-3 years in the wild and up to 6 years in captivity. Their “productive life” is about two years for hens (for optimal egg production) and one year for males (for optimal fertility).

How long have they been around? 

Watch this video to learn the wild and weird history of the Coturnix quail - and how we came really close to losing them.

Learn more in our video-based Quail 101 course!