Though most of the time they are just looked upon as pets, in reality, pigeons could make a great companion for the right person. From gentle dispositions to soft, soothing cooing sounds, not to mention the plain diversified appearances, there is probably something like a pet pigeon that has captured the hearts of many lovers of animals.
This full guide will look at aspects of raising pigeons as pets and look through different breeds and varieties of fancy pigeon breeds. It will give practical insights into the care of such feathered friends.
Understanding Pigeons As Pets
The association of pigeons with man dates back thousands of years. Their ancestor, the wild rock pigeon, is natively distributed in Europe, North Africa, and Asia. In the course of history, domesticated pigeons have been bred for various characteristics, which include color, size, and behavior.
While they may be more of a nuisance in urban settings due to their fast breeding and scavenging nature, they can turn out to be charming birds when domesticated. Indeed, soft cooing sounds and their curious nature have made them dear companions to those who are willing to invest much time and effort into their care.
Various Pigeon Breeds Types
There are over three hundred different pigeon breeds, each with its own characteristics and appearances. From the commonplace Rock Pigeon, Columba livia, which might be found in cities around the world, to the fantails, Jacobins, and Tumblers, there’s a great deal of choice for prospective owners, based on preference or the predicaments of their residential arrangement.
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Rock Pigeon
The most common pigeon breeds are distinguished by gray-blue feathers and their ability to thrive in urban environments.
Fantail Pigeon
The fantail has the most developed tail feathers that look like a fan and much like a peacock’s tail. Fantails remain famous in exhibitions because of their elegant looks and friendly disposition.
Jacobin Pigeon
Known for its hooded neck feathers, which form something rather like a ruff around the head—not unlike the hoods that Jacobin monks used to wear—this breed is admired on account of its appearance and graceful movements.
Tumbler Pigeon
Known for acrobatic stunts in the air, tumblers do backward somersaults in flight. They come in all colors and patterns and are bred for their agility and athleticism.
Advantages of Keeping Pigeons
Though there are several benefits to having pet pigeon breeds, some of them extend beyond companionship. Compared to other reared pets, pigeons are very low-maintenance; they need provisions for facilities, food, water, and a safe shelter.
On the other hand, they are intelligent birds that could form close associations with their masters; therefore, they could be very fulfilling pets provided one is willing to spend their time on their upkeep and training.
Low Maintenance
Pigeons are very clean birds that keep themselves well-groomed. They require little grooming from owners and do not develop many undesirable habits as other pets might.
Companionship
Pigeons belong to the social class of birds and so enjoy the company of their flock and even their human caretakers. They can become close to their owners by mutual interaction and reinforcement.
Educational Value
Keeping pigeons can be said to be educational for the child as well as for adults. The joys of the outdoors, trickery, cooperation, aggression, and taking on a task are all evident in the film as is the concept of life-cycle.
Therapeutic Benefits
Some of the respondents interviewed have claimed that it is even refreshing or even enjoyable merely to observe the pigeons feed or coo with their nest. The calmness of the pigeons thus has the effect of being soothing in nature with the possibility of lessening the levels of stress and anxiety within their owners.
Caring for Pet Pigeons
Knowing what to feed, how to house, and what health factors should be checked are all imperative for the proper care of pet pigeons. Although clean birds, they need an environment free from accumulated wastes.
Regular checks on health, suitable vaccinations are essential in keeping them healthy. Environmental enrichments such as toys and perches can also help in stimulating natural behaviors and thwarting boredom.
Food
A good diet should, of course, be well-balanced for fancy pigeon breeds. This would generally include a pelleted diet with pigeon feed or seed mixes supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables, and occasional treats like millet sprays or mealworms.
Housing
A good aviary or loft should be both safe and large for the bird, keeping it from predators and saving it from bad weather. The birds require perches, nesting boxes, and adequate ventilation.
Health care
They are strenuous prey to respiratory tract diseases and parasitic diseases due to mite and worm infestations. They can also be attacked by some wild animals or even make an accident occur in the process of undertaking the journey.
There is always a need to monitor the animals to detect any form of diseases or injuries and in this respect, owners are supposed to take the animals to the vet immediately.
Enrichment
Toys, mirrors, perches, or toys can enrich an environment for your pigeon, thus making him not get bored. Pigeons are known to enjoy bathing as well. Therefore, a shallow dish filled with water may contribute to their comfort as well.
Challenges of Keeping Pigeons
While pet pigeon make for sweet companions, there are yet a few issues related to keeping them that any interested owner should be aware of. Indeed, pigeons are vulnerable to various diseases and parasites; therefore, they need regular veterinary care.
If an owner fails to clean constantly, then their droppings will smear everything and make any interior unsanitary. High noise levels can become an issue in countries where people prefer living in compact neighbourhoods.
Health
However, they are prone to infections, particularly of the respiratory system, and parasitic ailments due to infestation by mites and worms. They can also get injured by this through an attack by wild animals or even be involved in an accident.
Owners need to monitor their pets at any time for the first sign of sickness or injury and immediately have it treated by a veterinarian.
Mess
Droppings are quite heavy, so this causes problems as they pile up very fast when it is not cleaned out regularly. Absorbent bedding or floor coverings in their aviary will simplify cleaning tasks.
Noise
Though much less noisy than most other birds, pigeons do make noise, mainly during courtship or if frightened. Noise factors should be considered when living in high population density areas or sharing walls with neighbors.
Bonding with your Pet Pigeon
Building an intimate relationship with a pet pigeon requires some patience and understanding. Pigeons themselves are social birds, and they do appreciate the time their owner spends with them.
Staying near them, softly speaking, and giving them a treat will make them familiar with the owner gradually. Pigeon owners find great joy in observing their particular personalities and behaviors that can, over time, be quite endearing.
Handling
Handle your pet pigeon gradually, with small sessions at a time, building the time upon comfort level. Be very gentle and avoid sudden movements and noises that will scare your bird away.
Training
Pigeons can be trained by positive reinforcement methods. Basic commands, such as stepping onto your hand or a perch, can be taught easily by repetition and reward. The sessions cannot be too long and should be such that the bird gets some enjoyment out of it, keeping them both interested and motivated.
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Conclusion
In summary, a pet pigeon indeed has the potential to become an exemplary pet for either an individual or a family searching for a unique bird pet. From the ordinary breed to the vibrant fancy pigeon breeds, attending to these birds brings satisfaction in itself. Understanding their needs, tending to them, and developing a sense of trust are just stepping stones to living harmoniously with your pigeon pet.
If one has the right knowledge and dedication, in return, they will get to enjoy the companionship and charisma of these very underestimated birds. From their sometimes hilarious behaviors to their mesmerizing looks, pet pigeons have much to give as a companion.
Be it that you have never kept pets or be an experienced bird keeper, the world of keeping pigeons as pets is full of experiences and rewards. Get on board and learn about these amazing birds, enjoying life with a pet pigeon.
FAQs
Are pigeons noisy pets?
Overall, pet pigeons are thought to be relatively quiet pets compared to many other bird species. They coo softly and make gentle sounds that most people find soothing to listen to. They may vocalise a little more during courtship or if scared, but they generally remain quiet enough, especially compared with the larger parrots or even some of the songbirds.
Do pigeons require a large area?
does require adequate space to allow the pet pigeons to move about and stretch their wings. The amount of space required, however, depends upon the breed and the number of pigeons you keep. For example, it does well with smaller breeds or pairs in a good-sized aviary or large indoor cage, while the larger breeds or groups would want a loft or outdoor aviary of their own to have room to fly around and exercise.
What do pet pigeons eat?
One half or more of the diet may be formulated feeds or seed mixes specifically prepared for this type of domestic pigeon. This can be complemented with fresh fruits and vegetables including lettuces, carrots, and peas. Although frequently seeds of millet may be offered as treats or even mealworms sporadically.