Pigeons for sale in the Netherlands

Pigeons: behaviour and suitability

Pigeons recognise partner, group, keeper and home and maintain a clear hierarchy. A found racing pigeon should be traced to its owner through the ring number, not immediately rehomed. Always assess the actual animal and, when a trade label covers several species, verify the scientific name before acquisition. Age, sex, health and previous housing can noticeably influence behaviour.

Care and housing

Provide dry draught-free resting places, flat shelves, bathing water, grit, multiple feeding points and adequate flight room. Limit dust and keep floor and drinking water hygienic to prevent respiratory and intestinal problems. Set up the complete enclosure before the animal arrives and record relevant values and daily behaviour. A sudden change in appetite, activity, breathing, posture or droppings calls for a check of the environment and, where needed, knowledgeable help.

Health and responsible acquisition

Check ring, weight, breast muscle, eyes, throat, feet and droppings and quarantine newcomers. Extreme crop, beak or feather forms may hinder eating, seeing, flying or feeding young. Ask the seller about age, origin, current care and known health problems, and ensure any documents belong to the animal offered. Never choose on colour, size or price alone, and identify a knowledgeable veterinarian or other species expert before urgent problems arise.