Why Quail Hunting Remains Popular in Western Kenya

In the village of Muyafwa A, located in Butere Sub-county, we discover Wycliffe Onyango Indeche, a skilled hunter of quails.

Onyango, with utmost precision, skillfully arranges traps concealed within a nearby bush, just a short distance from his dwelling. His aim is clear - to ensnare a multitude of quails, prized for their delectable flesh, which he intends to sell to the appreciative locals. For over three decades, Onyango has dedicated himself to the ancient art of quail hunting, an ancestral tradition passed down to him by his esteemed grandfather, a renowned quail hunter in their region. Every break of dawn, Onyango diligently rises to strategically position his traps along the well-trodden paths frequented by these sociable and gregarious birds. Resembling partridges in appearance, albeit smaller and less robust, quails are known to congregate and travel in small groups known as coveys.

Quails, like ducks, geese, turkeys, pigeons, ostriches, and guinea fowls, are considered one of 1.6 per cent of poultry species. Onyango employs a clever tactic of using ants as bait to lure the quails into his traps. The lucrative market for quails motivates Onyango to continue his pursuit as a single bird can be sold for a price ranging from Sh50 to Sh70, depending on its size. By trapping quails, Onyango can support the needs of his family. Earning a living for his family is no easy feat, but on a good day, he manages to ensnare anywhere from 20 to 50 quails. This brings in a tidy sum of about Sh2,000, which is enough to support his loved ones.

To lure in these elusive birds, he employs a clever tactic. Traditional cages called efihuli are hung from tall trees, the noisy presence of the trapped birds attracts other quails and leads them to be caught as well. Taking steps to safeguard his feathered companions, he has ingeniously modified a small bell that acts as an alarm against potential predators. In the counties of Kakamega and Vihiga, hunting for quails remains a popular pursuit. According to Onyango, quail meat is not only delectable, but it is also nutritious, boasting a lower fat content compared to other meats. The birds tend to congregate in large numbers during the peak months of May, June, and November. It is during these periods that his success in quail hunting truly shines. He has been able to provide his children with an education thanks to his endeavour.

Esther Odera, a nutritionist from Vihiga, highlights the abundant protein found in quail meat and eggs. In Vihiga County, certain households engage in both hunting and raising quails due to their exceptional nutritional benefits. The price for both male and female quails is set at Sh200.