The Art of Raising Pigeons: Multiple Benefits and Practical Tips
introduction
Raising pigeons is a diverse activity, with approximately 500 wild and 175 domesticated species. Pigeon breeders seek to reap several benefits from this practice; some benefit from their meat and feathers, while others raise them for sporting purposes. Here are some tips for raising pigeons properly, whether at home or elsewhere.
Choosing the type of pigeons to be raised
The choice of breed of pigeon depends on the primary purpose of keeping it. The following is an explanation of the most important categories:
Meat-producing pigeons:
This species is known for its protein-rich meat and delicious flavor, which encourages some to raise them for their meat when they reach the appropriate size. Among the species chosen for producing squabs are:
White King
Red Carnot
French Pigeon
Giant Pigeon
Show or Ornamental Pigeons
A wide variety of show pigeons are available in varying shapes and sizes. Show pigeons were previously bred for other purposes, but their distinctive appearance has shifted their focus to display as an ornamental species. They are generally characterized by their large size, high weight, and beautiful build with attractive plumage. Examples of this species include:
Fan-tailed Pigeon: This pigeon is famous for its broad tail, reflecting the characteristic of its name.
Jacob Pigeon: This pigeon features fluffy feathers on the lower sides of its neck, with the upper part of its head covered in similar feathers.
Sporting Pigeons
Sporting pigeons require specific characteristics to help them perform their tasks, whether for carrying messages in the past or for commercial and ceremonial purposes today. Racing pigeons are a good example of this, thanks to their training that allows them to take off and return to their cage, no matter how far away they are. For racing, it is recommended to choose small-sized pigeons. Among the species used in this field are:
Acrobatic Pigeons
Rotary Pigeons
Raising pigeons in pairs
Pigeon breeders are advised to always have pairs, i.e., a male and a female, ensuring they have an even number when purchasing. This breeding method aims to stimulate reproduction, as pigeons can mate naturally with a partner similar in characteristics and behavior. It's worth noting that some pigeon species may need to be placed together in nesting boxes for a few days to facilitate the mating process. Pairs generally live between 12 and 15 years, and pigeons continue to produce eggs throughout this period until the end of their lives.
Providing a Healthy Environment for Pigeons
The housing must be provided with a permanent roof to protect the pigeons. It is also important to ensure that the housing is always dry, as humidity contributes to the spread of disease.
Temperature:
Suitable temperatures must be maintained for the birds and regularly monitored using heating systems, as pigeons cannot tolerate extreme cold conditions such as wind, rain, and low temperatures.
Ventilation and Bedding:
The housing must be well ventilated, and bedding must be changed and reduced during the hot summer months to avoid high temperatures.
Wind Protection:
It is recommended to install windbreaks around pigeon housing, especially during strong winds.
Choosing a Safe and Appropriately Sized Housing
An old barn or a room used for children's play can be used, but it is important to consider a few points:
Check the laws of the area where the pigeons will be raised to ensure this is permitted.
Provide a space of at least 0.76 square meters for each pair of pigeons, taking into account the increase in the number of pigeons during breeding periods.
Arrange the placement of the chicks so that they are placed separately from their parents or together in the same area, depending on the available space.
Protect the housing from external elements and predators, especially for young chicks, by using sturdy materials such as metal or wood and closing the doors tightly.
Designate upper areas for nesting (perches) with specific dimensions (30.5 cm wide, 2.5 cm deep, and 25 cm high).
Separate aggressive pigeons from other pigeons to avoid collisions.
Ensure that the materials used in the construction of the housing do not cause scratches or wounds to the pigeons, and provide bedding or floor lining for the birds' comfort.
Provide a hut-like structure for free-range pigeons with a single entrance that can be closed when needed. The housing can be shared with hens, provided each species has a separate entrance.
If choosing a tall building for free-range pigeons, consider the risk of predators due to the multiple openings.
Provide special nests for free-range pigeon eggs within the housing, with a diameter of at least 25 cm per pigeon. Ensure they are furnished with straw or wood shavings.
This way, you ensure a suitable and safe environment for the pigeons, contributing to their health and productivity.
Providing Healthy Food for Pigeons
Caged Pigeons:
Caged pigeons are fed grains and seeds, ensuring that the food is dry, as moisture can lead to vomiting and diarrhea. It is recommended to diversify the food mix to ensure the birds receive all the necessary nutrients, and to place the food in a clean and accessible location. Suitable foods include wheat, corn, barley, commercial feed, peas, peanuts, legumes, and various granular materials.
Free-Range Pigeons:
Free-Range pigeons feed on a mixture of wheat, barley, and chicken feed. Prepared food can also be purchased from stores. It is recommended to provide at least two meals per day, and to place the food bowls in areas inaccessible to pests. Keep in mind that free-range pigeons often find their food while flying outdoors.
Providing clean water
Water is one of the basic needs of caged pigeons, and it must be available continuously throughout the day. It is recommended to place water bowls near food bowls, and to use specialized devices to facilitate the drinking process. Regular attention should be paid to the cleanliness of the basins to prevent the spread of disease. Water dispensers can also be used for free-range pigeons.
Regular cleaning of the pigeon habitat
A pigeon habitat requires special attention in terms of cleanliness, including cleaning:
Food and water bowls,
Nesting boxes (perches),
Above rooms,
and flight areas.
Caring for Pigeons During the Breeding Period
Ten pairs of caged pigeons can produce approximately eight chicks per month, weighing approximately 500 grams each, depending on the care provided during the breeding period. Therefore, nests and food must be provided to stimulate natural mating. In the case of free-range pigeons, pairs can be grouped together in a cage to obtain specific breeds and characteristics. If the breeder notices that the pigeons are not receptive to mating immediately, a wire mesh can be used inside the cage to temporarily separate the pairs. The barrier can then be removed after a few days when the birds show a desire to mate again.
Pigeon health care
Diseases are a major threat to poultry in general, as infections spread rapidly among flock members. Therefore, a preventative plan must be followed, including:
Maintaining general hygiene in housing and feeding areas.
Vaccinating pigeons against common diseases such as smallpox, Newcastle disease, and influenza.
Early detection of infections and quarantine of infected birds to prevent transmission.
Consult a veterinarian if unusual symptoms appear, and bury dead birds and disinfect all relevant areas.
Using wristbands or tags on pigeons' feet
Wristbands or tags are used to identify pigeons, especially free-range pigeons when participating in races or breeding specific breeds to track their genetic development. These tags help:
Track the growth of pigeons and distinguish them from others.
Reduce the possibility of losing a bird during competitions.
It is best to apply these tags early, before the feet have grown, to achieve the best results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pigeon breeding offers multiple aspects that combine pleasure, economic benefits, and sporting value. This field requires careful planning to provide a healthy environment, balanced nutrition, and preventive care to prevent the spread of diseases, in addition to the use of identification methods that help track breed development and achieve optimal results. By applying these principles, pigeon breeders can ensure continued production and achieve success in this exciting field.