If you have always liked the idea of having a pigeon that flies out and returns back each night then continue reading. We have created a short guide on how you can get pigeons to return with some useful tips on what to do.
- - You must first make sure you have the correct type of pigeon. You will need a homing or racing pigeon. Others that are just for show will not fly back from long distances. If unsure then ask a pigeon breeder or vet who know their information and how to differentiate between pigeons.
- - Build a loft that a pigeon can enter. There needs to be adequate space and room so that the pigeon can enter. You must make sure there is a large opening which they can detect and fly into. This should however be not so large that predators can enter. The birds should be locked away for their own safety.
- - Try and make a pigeon’s habitat is as pleasant as possible so that the bird wants to return. If a pigeon is unhappy in it’s environment then maybe when it leaves it will not return. Like your home, you want to find food, shelter and safety. This is why you return home each night. A pigeon follows the same procedure.
- - For the first 4 weeks you should keep them in the enclosed space without letting it out. Feed it properly with healthy and nutritious food at least twice a day.
- - After a while your pigeon should recognise that their home really is their home. Let it out of the loft and let it explore the surrounding neighbourhoods. After a while they should return home.
- - After 2 weeks of exploring at home, now you can go further. You should try a variety of locations such as north, east, south and west so they can set their bearings correctly. Also stagger the distance. First should be 1 mile then 2 miles then 5 and 10. Of course go within your birds limits. Homing pigeons are said to do well for up to 50 miles.
- - Try not to let your pigeons fly to early or it may say goodbye for ever.
- - Training older pigeons is not advised. They may have been trained before by another owner to return to a different loft and no matter what, they will always try to return there.
- - When releasing them try clear, sunny days to start with. If cloudy or windy it could harm the chances of the pigeons return.
Photo: cgbfx123
Source: Wikihow