Effect of Photoperiod on Quail Processing Yields

Bobwhite quail were grown on a 14-hr photophase and Coturnix quail on 8, 10, 14, and 24-hr photophases to analyze the effects of lighting regimen and feed and water withdrawal on carcass weights and processing yields. Eight-week-old Coturnix grown on restricted light regimens had heavier carcasses and greater yields than the Coturnix grown on nonrestrictive light programs. The Coturnix that were grown on restricted light for 8 wk were almost as heavy as the Bobwhite grown for 16 wk. The increase in weight of the Coturnix carcasses was attributed to the delay in sexual maturity. Feed and water deprivation prior to processing resulted in a weight loss of .4%/hr during holding. Concomitant with this increase in shrink was a decrease in yield. Yield decreased at a rate of .15%/hr during the holding times studied.