How to Prepare Your Pigeons for a Healthy Breeding Season

Champions are made before they are born. A successful breeding season starts long before the eggs are laid, with healthy, well-prepared breeders. The condition and well-being of your pigeons play a crucial role in the quality of the next generation. By ensuring your breeders are in peak health and fully prepared, you set the foundation for raising strong, competitive birds. This guide will walk you through the steps to give your pigeons the best start to the breeding season.

Health Preparation

Healthy breeders are the backbone of successful offspring. Before pairing your pigeons, focus on these key areas:

• Worming: Begin by deworming your pigeons to eliminate any internal parasites. Parasites can weaken the birds and affect their ability to produce strong chicks.

• Canker Treatment: Even if the birds appear healthy, a preventative course of Ronidazole ensures they are free from canker, a common breeding-season issue.

• Respiratory Health: Treat with Tylan or Doxycycline to prevent respiratory infections, which can stress the birds and reduce breeding success.

• Gut Health: After treatments, use probiotics to restore healthy gut bacteria. This improves digestion and nutrient absorption, both vital for breeding.

Choose the Right Feed

Diet plays a vital role in preparing breeders and supporting them during the demanding breeding season:

• Before Pairing:

  • Offer a balanced feed with 16-18% protein to condition your pigeons for breeding.

  • Include small amounts of oil-rich seeds, like sunflower or hemp, to improve their overall condition.

• While Raising Chicks:

  • Switch to a high-protein breeding mix (18-20% protein) to support egg-laying and feed growing chicks.

  • Always provide grit and minerals to ensure strong eggshells and healthy chick development.

Supplementary Nutrition:

Proper nutrition doesn’t just stop at feed; supplements play a critical role in ensuring your breeders stay in peak condition. Here are some natural and effective options to incorporate into their routine:

• Apple Cider Vinegar: Add 1 tablespoon per gallon of water a few times a week. This helps maintain gut health and creates an environment in the digestive system that discourages harmful bacteria.

• Oregano Powder and Oil: Oregano is a natural antimicrobial that supports respiratory and digestive health. Provide it once a week to boost immunity and overall well-being.

• Organic Honey: A teaspoon of organic honey mixed into water once a week provides a quick energy boost and acts as a natural antioxidant.

• Lemon: Add lemon juice to water or feed. This helps maintain water pH levels between 4-6 on the pH scale, discouraging harmful bacteria and promoting hydration.

Optimize the Loft

A clean, comfortable loft is critical for a smooth breeding season:

• Ventilation: Ensure proper airflow to prevent respiratory issues, but avoid drafts.

• Nest Preparation: Provide clean nest bowls with materials like tobacco stems or pine needles to reduce the risk of mites and keep nests hygienic.

• Lighting: If you’re breeding earlier in the year, extend daylight hours with artificial light to stimulate breeding and for breeders to feed the youngsters throughout the day.

Ongoing Support During Breeding

Once your breeders are paired and the season is underway, maintain a consistent care routine:

• Fresh Water Daily: Keep their water clean and supplement with vitamins, electrolytes or apple cider vinegar as needed.

• Inspection: Check signs of stress, or any health issues.

• Feed Adjustments: Ensure breeders continue receiving a protein-rich diet throughout the season.

Final Thoughts

Healthy breeders are the foundation of every champion pigeon. By preparing them properly before the breeding season, you’re investing in the future of your loft. Remember, champions truly are made before they are born, so take the time to ensure your breeders are in optimal condition.

For more tips or personalized advice, feel free to reach out. Here’s to a successful breeding season and strong, healthy pigeons!