Why Raise Pigeons & Doves

Why Raise Pigeons
Throughout our country, there are thousands of people who are pigeon fanciers. We feel that our hobby is a great way to spend leisure time and many fanciers feel that the stress of their everyday lives seems to disappear after they've visited with their pigeons.
Fanciers come in all ages and from all walks of life, but they share a common bond - their love of pigeons.

Young people have discovered that their pigeons have provided them with something valuable to do with their spare time and they also learn responsibility while caring for their pigeons. The NPA has an excellent Youth Program that can assist them in locating breeding stock and their quest for information.

Background
Pigeon history dates back over 5000 years where pigeons and doves are mentioned several times in the Bible, the dove being an emblem of the Holy Spirit (Mathew 3:16) and representing purity (Luke 2:24). The pigeons of today are descendants of the wild Blue Rock Pigeon or Dove, Columbia Livia, which still inhabits coastal regions of Europe, North Africa and Asia.

Aren't Pigeons Dirty & Can't They Spread Diseases
Unlike the feral pigeons that are found in cities and farmlands, domestic pigeons are housed in healthy environments and if given the chance, will bath everyday. Fanciers take pride in the appearance and health of their pigeons. Studies have proven that raising pigeons is no more of a health risk than raising any other animal or bird.

Where Can I Buy My Pigeons And How Much Do They Cost
Prices for pigeons range from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars. We recommend that you start with only a few and that you purchase them from a reputable breeder. Attend a pigeon show where you will be able to see scores of breeds.

Feed
The diet of pigeons and doves is grain, usually mixtures of peas, corn, wheat, milo and salfflower. Pigeon pellets which include most grains in a concentrated form are popular. Grit is an essential to good health, helping to break down the whole grain for digestion and providing trace minerals. No grit is required when feeding pellets. Clear water should always be available. This provides a convenient method of medicating as most modern medications are made water soluble. When provided with a commercial pigeon feed, pigeon grit and clean fresh water it is possible to maintain a flock of pigeons in outstanding condition and top health.

Where Can I Keep My Pigeons
Pigeons are usually kept out doors in buildings called "lofts". Lofts can be small or large, but they must provide the pigeons with a dry, draft free environment. Pigeons are hearty, adaptable birds that thrive under a wide variety of conditions. Whatever quarters you provide should be airy and well ventilated, but not drafty. While some pigeon hobbyists have elaborated lofts which match the color scheme of their homes, other lofts are modest and functional. The important thing is that the birds are protected from the elements while providing some much needed sunlight. To ensure that the birds are not overcrowded, allow at least two square feet of floor space per bird. This will help to build a comfortable and healthy environment and will allow the birds to flourish.

Help in Starting
The domestic pigeon and dove hobby is worldwide and is supported be fanciers from all walks of life. Contact one of our members to receive further information on joining the hobby and how you can start enjoying the pleasures and challenge of pigeons and doves.

Picture of an ideal beginners loft.
This small rabbit style coop will hold
 up to 1 pair of pigeon or doves.

Picture of a homemade
 small pigeon & dove loft.
 

Picture of an advanced pigeon loft.