Jazan's Quail: Symbol of Migration, Source of Sustenance

In the folk poetry of Jazan, the quail symbolizes both alienation and longing, mirroring the human experience of seeking livelihood and crossing borders. Like the bird's annual migration of thousands of kilometers, the quail in poetry often acts as a messenger, carrying longing between distant lands—a metaphor resonating deeply with expatriates yearning for home.
 Classified as a migratory wild bird, the quail holds significant environmental and economic value in Jazan. Small and agile, measuring 16-20 centimeters and weighing 90-150 grams, it adapts easily to both agricultural and desert landscapes.
 Twice a year, in spring and fall, millions of quail traverse the Kingdom's airspace as they migrate up to 5,000 kilometers between Europe and Africa, with Jazan serving as a crucial resting and feeding ground along their journey. The role of the quail in Jazan's ecosystem and its importance as a food source contribute to the region's environmental and economic diversity.
 With the rise of quail breeding projects, sustainable utilization increases, bolstering food security and generating economic benefits. Notably, quail meat boasts 25 grams of protein per 100 grams, surpassing chicken's 20 grams. Quail eggs also offer double the iron and potassium of chicken eggs, with average annual consumption reaching 50 eggs per person in some areas.