I started with ten hatching eggs and more questions than answers.
I read my way through forums, articles and videos. There was plenty of useful information, but it was scattered across different channels. I did not know what was right or wrong.
Much of it was written for other countries, and some of the advice was unclear or pointed in different directions. As a beginner, it was difficult to know what I could trust.
That is why I created The Quail Coop.
Here I share practical knowledge about quail and quail keeping, based on my own experience and reliable sources. I explain things simply and always try to be clear about what I know, what I have experienced myself, and where uncertainty still remains.
My aim is to make it easier for others to make good choices, get off to a good start and, most importantly, give their quail a safe and happy life.
About me
My name is Irene Sveian. I have more than 20 years of experience in graphic design, communication and marketing. I have always had a passion for simplifying things and making complex subjects easier to understand.
Read more about my work on my website, irenesveian.com.
Keeping quail has become an enjoyable and rewarding hobby, and a small escape from the digital world.
This website lets me combine these two interests. I hope that you find what I share useful.
How it all began
I had some childhood experience with both chickens and budgerigars, but knew very little (nothing, in fact) about quail when I first began.
We started with 10 hatching eggs from the most common domesticated quail in Norway, the Japanese quail. Although the man who sold me the eggs called it the Common quail.
I quickly discovered how confusing quail names can be. One species can have several names, and some names are used incorrectly.
When you do not really know which quail you have, finding the right information becomes rather difficult too.
My aim for The Quail Coop
I want to clear up the confusion I experienced myself and share what I have learned along the way.
It matters to me that the information I provide is trustworthy.
I base my content on conversations with other quail keepers, both in Norway and around the world. I read research reports, seek input from relevant authorities and organisations, and record my own experiences.
Read more about my sources and references.
I aim to offer everything from practical guides and advice about health and feed to recipes and interviews with other quail keepers.
The Quail Coop today
I have now kept quail for many years, and I know far more than I did when I started with little or no knowledge.
I also know how easy it is to catch the quail bug. We began with just a few Japanese quail. We lived in a house with a garden, but space was somewhat limited.
Fast-forward to 2026. We now live on a smallholding with plenty of room, a barn and several outbuildings. We have around 100 quail across three species:
- Japanese quail
The most common species in hobby keeping and ideal for beginners — they lay plenty of eggs. - Northern Bobwhite
Also known as Bobwhite quail, a wilder type with plenty of personality. - Blue-breasted quail
Also called Chinese painted quail, the smallest but, in my experience, the most caring of the quail.
My articles mainly cover the species I have experience with and know something about. Given how my quail hobby has developed so far, I may well add more species over time.
Take a look at the Quail Species page, where I briefly describe some other species.
And in case anyone was wondering, yes, we also have chickens. They are kept separate from the quail.
Questions and suggestions
Are you thinking about keeping quail yourself, or have you been doing it for a while? Please get in touch.
I update the content regularly and always appreciate suggestions for improvements, clarifications or new topics.
