Game Birds and Ratites
The production of game birds and ratites has become very popular within the last 10-20 years. The knowledge base about these birds is rapidly expanding and will continue as the industries develop. Widely diverse practices are used that vary depending on the species of birds produced and the purpose for its production.
Emphasis at this web site is directed to the production of bobwhite quail, although information is also made available on other upland game birds and Ratites. Bobwhite quail are primarily produced for eventual slaughter (consumption) or release on shooting preserves, where they are eventually hunted for sport. The type of bird desired will dictate the type of management that is required. Although several publications address topics relating to habitat management, the primary emphasis of this site will be upon commercial production of the birds.
This site offers basic materials that answer many questions that producers initially ask. Additional information is available from industry associations, government agencies, and private web sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
- My bobwhite quail appear sick and are losing weight (especially in breast muscles) and the mortality is very high. What is wrong?
- What causes the lesions and scabby areas on the feet and toes of my bobwhite quail?
- How can I improve the quality of feathers on my bobwhite quail?
- What feeds should I offer my bobwhite quail?
- Should I feed medications in my game bird feeds?
- What feed ingredients are used in quail diets?
- How much floor space should I provide for my bobwhite quail?
- What temperatures are recommended for brooding quail?
- How do I get rid of mites and lice from by game birds?
- How do I treat my game birds to rid them of intestinal worms?
Other Information
- Sanitation - Cleaning and Disinfectants addresses the concerns and procedures for maintaining a sanitary and low- disease environment in the hatchery and other poultry facilities.
- Diseases of Poultry is a manual that discusses the many diseases in poultry and gamebird populations. Includes symptoms, causes, treatments and preventative measures.
- Solutions for Poultry is a compilation of many treatments used by the poultry producer to treat conditions or improve the productive status of the flock.
- Feeding Gamebirds is a discussion of nutritional concerns that the game bird producter should address when producing healthy birds. Includes diets formulated for various ages of quail.
Publications
News
RAYMOND, Miss. -- With low feed prices and healthy demand for broilers and eggs, the Mississippi poultry industry is poised for another productive year.
ELLISVILLE, Miss. -- Mississippi State University representatives met with agricultural clients in Ellisville recently to discuss research and education needs for 2018. More than 115 individuals attended this year's event.
STARKVILLE, Miss. -- The poultry industry is the giant in the state’s agricultural economy, as its estimated 2017 production value of $2.8 billion nearly doubles the value of forestry.
Early figures from the Mississippi State University Extension Service show the industry grew at an estimated 13.4 percent from the 2016 value. Brian Williams, Extension agricultural economist, said higher broiler prices are responsible for the value increase.
In three days, Teresa Dyess shifted her business focus from produce to poultry.
The change began two years ago with an offhand remark from her husband, Joe Dyess.
“He told a broiler grower in Wayne County we wouldn’t mind building pullet houses because we wanted to diversify our farm,” she said. “We didn’t think any more about it, and then the next day a poultry processor called and offered us a contract. A banker came the next day, and everything fell into place.”
Lanette Crocker, coordinator for the MSU Extension Service in Wayne County, said Teresa Dyess’ adaptability has helped her maintain success through the farm’s transition.
RAYMOND, Miss. -- Mississippi's poultry industry remains healthy with a strong demand for broilers and a positive outlook for the remainder of 2017.
Success Stories
Baby chickens are so cute and cuddly that few people can resist holding them. Unfortunately, as public interest in raising backyard birds has grown so has the number of Salmonella outbreaks in the U.S. (Photo by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
Some people can’t resist the latest spring fashions. Others plant flowers in profusion.
Then there are those, like me, who are highly susceptible to the cheerful chirping of newly hatched chicks. (Photo by Kat Lawrence)
