Compare
Coturnix quail vs Button quail
Both are small ground birds, but one is a working egg layer and one is a tiny pet.
| Coturnix quail | Button quail | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | About 4–6 oz | About 1.5 oz |
| Eggs | Near-daily layer, eggs good to eat | Tiny eggs, fewer |
| Housing | Hutch or aviary floor, soft ceiling | Floor of an aviary or large indoor enclosure |
| Flushing | Jumps straight up when startled | Jumps straight up when startled |
| Lifespan | 2–3 years | 3–5 years |
| Keeping | Indoors or outdoors | Usually indoors |
Pick a coturnix quail if…
You want eggs and a hardy, easy bird.
Pick a button quail if…
You want a small indoor pet bird that lives on the floor.
Laws change — always verify with your state wildlife agency.