Anders Says: Essential Winter Care for Racing Pigeons

As the chill of winter sets in, racing pigeon enthusiasts like Anders face unique challenges in keeping their feathered athletes in top form. In this insightful blog, we delve into Anders' tried and tested methods for ensuring the well-being of racing pigeons during the coldest months.

From loft preparations to diet, water supply, health management, and training regimens, every aspect is covered to help your pigeons thrive in freezing temperatures.


While many might assume that enclosing lofts is essential in winter, Anders adopts a different approach. He believes in keeping everything open, allowing for natural ventilation. This section explores the rationale behind this unconventional method and how it benefits the pigeons' health and resilience against the cold.

Maintaining a Healthy Diet During Winter
Winter brings a shift in dietary needs for racing pigeons. Anders uses a special winter mix containing barley, paddy, oats, and other nutrients. We'll break down the components of this winter mix, available from brands like Vanrobeyers and Verselage, and discuss how it helps maintain the pigeons' health and racing condition during winter.
Water is vital, yet it easily freezes in cold weather. Anders has devised a practical solution with a double set of water troughs, alternately warmed in a 20-degree room. This section examines the dangers of using heated troughs and offers insights into Anders' method, ensuring a constant supply of unfrozen water without the risk of bacterial growth.

Identifying and Managing Health Issues in Cold Weather
Anders has discovered, against popular opinion, that he has an easier time keeping his pigeons healthy during colder climates. Contrary to the widespread belief that pigeons thrive better in warmer conditions, Anders' experience suggests that the cooler temperatures contribute positively to their wellbeing, possibly due to reduced presence of parasites and a more stable environment for feeding and resting.

Training Racing Pigeons in Winter
Training doesn't stop in winter for Anders' pigeons. He lets the racers out daily, except during snowfall, resuming quickly after. This section discusses how to modify training schedules and routines considering winter's challenges, ensuring the pigeons stay fit and ready for racing season.

Birds of prey, problems?
Anders is sure, regular flying can significantly reduce the risk of racing pigeons being preyed upon by hawks. Frequent exposure to the outdoors helps pigeons develop better agility and awareness, making them more adept at evading predators. Additionally, flying in groups can offer safety in numbers, as the pigeons benefit from collective vigilance. While these strategies can minimize risks, they cannot completely eliminate the natural threat posed by birds of prey. Thus, continuous vigilance and adaptive training methods are crucial for protecting racing pigeons.

Conclusion
Caring for racing pigeons in freezing temperatures demands specific knowledge and adaptations. Anders' methods provide a comprehensive guide on habitat, nutrition, health, and training, ensuring your racing pigeons not only survive but thrive during the winter months. With these insights, you're now equipped to give your pigeons the best care during the chill of winter.

Remember, every pigeon and loft is unique, so while these tips are invaluable, always consider your specific situation and adjust accordingly for the best results. Stay warm and fly high!

Until the next blog,

Jan de Wijs
Blogger and Racing Pigeon Expert