What started as a small 4-H project has grown into a full-fledged business for North Royalton Middle School seventh-grader Ava Burrows. In just six months, Ava has transformed her passion for quail into The Cluckity Homestead LLC, an officially licensed and NPIP-certified quail operation.
Ava, a third-year 4-H member and part of the Olmsted Hayburners club, began her journey last August with 12 quail purchased from other 4-H members. Now, she manages a thriving flock of nearly 50 birds, incubating and selling eggs as well as live birds. She has worked tirelessly to build her business by networking with experienced quail breeders across the country, including her favorite the Guidroz Family Farm in Louisiana. She has incubated eggs from different regions to diversify her flock, further expanding her knowledge through online courses and numerous books.
In December, Ava took a major step by applying for and receiving her State of Ohio Egg License, allowing her to sell quail eggs legally. Her fresh, locally raised quail eggs are now available at See You in Health and Grace Brothers. Shortly after, she officially registered The Cluckity Homestead as an LLC, turning her passion into a professional venture.
Beyond egg sales, Ava and her family recently achieved NPIP/AI monitored status (National Poultry Improvement Plan / Avian Influenza Monitored) through the Ohio Poultry Association, a significant milestone ensuring the health and quality of her birds. She is also an active junior member of the American Coturnix Breeders Association (ACBA) and was featured as their Junior Member of the Month in January. In addition, she serves on the Junior Fair Board for Cuyahoga County, furthering her involvement in agriculture and education.
Ava’s love for quail goes beyond business—she is passionate about educating others. She hopes to grow the quail community in Northeast Ohio and encourage more youth to explore raising quail. Now that she is NPIP certified, she is expanding her ability to sell live birds to others interested in quail farming.
When she’s not tending to her growing flock, Ava enjoys reading about quail and eagerly sharing her knowledge. She frequently discusses quail with her teachers, including Mr. Radtke at NRMS. If you see Ava, don’t hesitate to ask her about quail—but be prepared for a detailed discussion, as she can talk for hours about their unique qualities and the nutritional benefits of quail eggs compared to chicken eggs!
For more about The Cluckity Homestead, visit her website or follow her on Facebook and YouTube.
