If you are looking for a new pet that is a little different from your run of the mill hamsters, parakeets and other small pets, consider the button quail.  Button quail are the smallest variety of quail, measuring about four inches tall when fully grown.  They require very little space and make really delightful sounds.

One thing that makes button quail so fun is the sheer variety of colors.  From the basic natural gray color to brilliant blues, browns and even lavenders, button quail are one of the most colorful types of pet birds.  When you breed button quail, the colors are always a surprise, which can make watching those eggs hatch even more fun.

Button quail also lay eggs, and although they are incredibly tiny, at about one inch tall, they are tasty and can be suitable substitutes for chicken eggs.

Button quail do have more special diet requirements than typical pet birds, but you can easily give them what they need by providing them a high quality game bird crumble, available at most feed stores.  Females have higher protein requirements, so supplementing with some crushed cat food can be a big help as well.

Button quail cannot survive in cold winter temperatures outside, but they can enjoy time outside during the warmer summer months.  Many people house them in aquariums while they are indoors, but button quail really enjoy an open space to run and forage in if they are allowed outside.

If you are looking for a different sort of pet, take some time to get to know the button quail.  They are pretty, easy to care for and beautiful to look at.  They also make great conversation starters.