The author recounts the lesser-known story of Japanese Quails venturing into space, highlighting their potential as a sustainable food source due to their small but nutritious meat and eggs. Quail embryos were first taken aboard Soyuz 32 in 1979, and after initial setbacks, successful hatching of quail chicks occurred on Mir in 1990. However, the chicks faced challenges in adapting to microgravity, with some perishing due to undernourishment. Despite high mortality rates, the experiment continued with varying success, culminating in the return of three surviving quail chicks to Earth. The tale of these feathered cosmonauts adds a unique chapter to the history of space exploration.
https://finchwench.wordpress.com/2011/09/06/cosmoquails/