Effect of Different Vegetable Protein Sources on Growth and Laying Performance of Japanese Quails (Coturnix Coturnix Japonica) in a Derived Savannah Zone of Nigeria

This study examined the comparative utilization of 30% inclusion levels of three vegetable protein sources [Groundnut Cake (GNC); Soybean Meal (SBM) and Cotton Seed Cake (CSC)] in the diets of growing and laying Japanese quails. The findings showed no significant variations (P>0.05) on feed intake, weight gain and feed/gain ratio during the growing period among the vegetable protein sources fed. Attainment of sexual maturity (age at first egg laid) was 60, 61 and 62 days for SBM, CSC and GNC based diets, respectively while weight of first egg laid was 9.95, 9.25 and 9.40 g, respectively. At the laying period, results indicated no significant differences among the treatment means for the performance and egg quality parameters measured. However, laying performance and egg quality traits were in general, numerically better (P>0.05) in quails fed SBM compared to CSC and GNC diets. The results suggested that the three vegetable protein sources could be used interchangeably in the diets of growing and laying Japanese quails reared in the derived Savannah zone of Nigeria.