And I was wandering what I can do about it. She popped in a few days ago and stayed the night. I put out some seed, bread and water for her, and in the morning she appeared to have gone. I should point out I have a very small garden as well as a small westie dog that dosen't like the fact that a quail has taken up residence in his garden.
So the quail seemed to go away for a day, and then returned the next day. She seems unhurt, but she stayed the night in the garden again, and this morning she's still here. She's a real character and seems completly unperturbed by me and my dog, but I need my garden back again as Basil my dog just sits at the back door whining to look at the quail all day.
I'm thinking I should try and catch the bird and put her in a box then take her to a field and release her, but wanted a more experienced opinion.
Thanks for any sugestions you may have.
Common Quails are summer visitors and don't generally reach the UK until May, so this is almost certainly an escaped Japanese Quail (the species most widely kept in captivity, very similar in appearance to wild Common Quails). That would also explain why it is so fearless. The best thing may be to catch it and take it to some kind of pet rescue centre to be rehomed - it will probably not survive if you take it out to the wider countryside.
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Hi Aiki
Thanks for the reply. I got hold of a domestic rescue center charity who has now taken her. It sounds like a volunter will take her and look after her. Thanks again for the advice.
I'm glad the quail has gone to a good home. I bet your little dog is pleased to have the garden back too!
He is indeed. Thanks again :)