How to Keep Pigeons as Pets
A pigeon is one of the most fascinating birds as it has been used for thousands of years as message carriers, food, for show and also as pets. If you love pigeons and want to keep them as pets, you need to ensure that you have enough space in your home for their appropriate enclosure. You should also keep in mind that pigeons are not low maintenance pets and if they are allowed to fly, that will be your responsibility. On top of that, you will have to take a lot of time out of your daily routine to take care of this beautiful bird. However, they can be quite interesting and affectionate pets and you will get attached to them very quickly.
Things Required:
– Pigeon loft and aviary
– Food and water bowls
– Straw, hay or newspapers
– Pellets or pigeon mix
– Grit
– Invertebrates (worms)
– Vegetable mix
– Large shallow dish
– Water
Instructions
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1
Set up a pigeon house
The first step towards having pigeons as pets is to set up an appropriate house for them. It needs to be remembered that they need a secure loft for roosting and if they are not free range, they will need an aviary to fly in. -
2
Lay newspapers/hay or straw
On the floor of the loft, you will be required to lay newspapers, straw or hay as it will make cleaning easy. -
3
Acquire the pigeons
The next step is to acquire a small group of the desired breed of pigeons or a bonded couple. Keep in mind that a pigeon will live happily if it has a companion. -
4
Food and water
You can now place the food and the water bowls in the aviary. It is your job to make sure that the pigeons are provided unlimited seed mix, invertebrates such as worms and small quantity of vegetable mix on a regular basis. You may give the task of arranging for invertebrates to your gardener. -
5
Lock your pigeons at night
In order to save your pigeons from carnivores such as cats or foxes, it is strongly recommended that you lock them in their loft at night. These animals often get access to aviaries and are also a threat for free-range pigeons. -
6
Bath for pigeons
Once or twice a week you should place a large shallow tub at the bottom of the aviary, filled a few inches with water. Pigeons love to take a bath as it allows them to keep their feathers in great condition as it also controls parasites.
- Vegetable mix
- Large shallow dish
- WaterNext%20stop%3A%20Pinterest "Pin It")
