How Long Do Quail Eggs Take to Hatch? Coturnix Timeline
Coturnix quail eggs take about 17 to 18 days to hatch. Stop turning and raise humidity at lockdown on day 14, which is one of the earliest in poultry.
Quail hatch time
Coturnix (Japanese) quail hatch in 17 to 18 days, a few days shorter than chicken eggs. Bobwhite quail take longer, about 23 days, so check the breed before you set the eggs.
Quail timeline, day by day
| Day | What to do |
|---|---|
| Day 0 | Set the eggs. Temperature 99.5°F forced-air, and keep humidity moderate. |
| Days 1–13 | Turn eggs an odd number of times a day, or use an auto-turner. |
| Day 7 | Candle. Remove clear eggs and any with a blood ring. |
| Day 14 | Lockdown: stop turning, raise humidity, and keep the lid shut. |
| Days 17–18 | Pipping and hatching. Quail hatch quickly, so keep the incubator closed. |
Why the quail timeline is short
Quail eggs are small and the incubation is compressed. A difference of half a day in lockdown matters more than with chicken eggs, so use the same incubator and thermometer for every hatch and write down your dates.
Set your dates with the calculator
The egg incubation calculator gives candling, lockdown and hatch dates for coturnix quail. When the chicks are out, use the brooder temperature chart for quail chicks.
Common questions
How many days do quail eggs take to hatch?
Coturnix quail take about 17 to 18 days. Bobwhite quail take about 23 days.
When should I stop turning quail eggs?
At lockdown on about day 14 for Coturnix. Stop turning and keep the lid shut until they hatch.
Figures are typical values from university extension and breed-association guidance. Estimates only. Individual animals vary — confirm pregnancy and health questions with your veterinarian.