Racing Pigeon Breeding: Master Selection, Training and Daily Management

Racing pigeon breeding is an activity centered on raising pigeons with homing ability. It has a long history; in early times they were used to carry messages, while today they are used more for racing competitions and leisure viewing. Racing pigeons have a strong sense of direction and good flight endurance, and after systematic training they can quickly return to their own loft from distant, unfamiliar locations.

In terms of breed selection, there are many racing pigeon lines at home and abroad, commonly including short- and medium-distance fast lines and ultra-long-distance lines. Breeders can choose breeding pigeons according to local race systems and their own goals. When selecting, attention is generally paid to pedigree records, body structure, eye sand and expression, and flying results, so as to avoid blind introduction of stock.

For daily management, the loft should be built in a location with higher terrain, good ventilation, dryness and good lighting, and it should be cleaned and disinfected regularly. The feed should be a reasonable mix of grains such as corn, wheat, peas and sorghum, supplemented with health grit to aid digestion. Drinking water must be kept clean, and relevant vaccines should be given on time along with good deworming work.

Training and breeding are equally important. Young pigeons should first become familiar with the loft environment, then gradually move from home flying to road training, improving their homing ability step by step. During breeding, attention should also be paid to observing the pigeons' mental state and droppings. If problems such as trichomoniasis or respiratory disease are found, they should be isolated and treated promptly, so as to maintain the health of the flock and good racing condition.