The Ultimate Guide to a Successful Molting Season

Expert Advice from Jan de Wijs with 40 Years of Experience. Fantastic that you're here, fellow racing pigeon enthusiasts! I am Jan de Wijs, and with over 40 years of experience in pigeon racing, I have a lot to share..Today, I want to discuss a subject that is absolutely crucial for the well-being of your feathered friends: the molting season!

The molting season is undoubtedly one of the most intensive and challenging periods for our pigeons. Imagine, hundreds of feathers and down need to be replaced! It's a physiological marvel that's much more than just 'losing a few feathers.' This process requires a tremendous amount of energy and strength and can seriously test the resistance of our pigeons.

And take note: many health problems such as paratyphoid can break out during or after this phase. Why? Simply because the pigeons are already fatigued from the racing season and then have to go through this demanding period.

So, what can you do to help your pigeons?
Foremost, let your pigeons be 'pigeons' again after the season. Let them enjoy some rest in the loft with their partner, either for breeding or nesting.

Health first!
Make sure your pigeons enter the molting season in good health. Avoid medication, unless it's absolutely necessary. A proper diet is crucial. Feathers consist of 86% keratin, a protein rich in sulfur-containing amino acids. So, your pigeons need a lot of protein in their diet (at least 16%)!

A golden tip?
Start the molt with an 8-day course of Natural Pigeon Tea. You'll be amazed at how well your pigeons respond to it! And let them take a free bath at least once or twice a week, with some Natural bath salt added. This will result in radiant, soft, and healthy plumage.

Lastly, sprinkle some Natural Vitaminor (brewer's yeast) over the food. It's rich in essential amino acids, vitamin B, minerals, and trace elements. Highly recommended! Moisten the food with some Natural Garlic oil so that the brewer's yeast sticks well to it.

Natural Choline Care
For a purifying effect on the liver and optimal moulting. Aromatic herbal elixir; contains turmeric and milk thistle. With sulphur-containing amino acids for a purifying effect that also reduces fat levels in the body. Ideal for the good development of the feathering. Stimulates appetite and metabolism. Has a positive effect on energy and endurance. With extra B vitamins.

The excretion of harmful substances from the body is essential to maintain good health. After heavy efforts and loads, the liver must be stripped of fats and this waste. Sulphur-containing amino acids contribute to this and stimulate this function. In addition, these amino acids are required for the production of keratin, a necessary building block for feathers and skin. The moulting period is a stressful period for pigeons where an extra boost is very useful because this is where the foundations are laid for the next breeding and sport season.

So there you have it, from an expert with 40 years of experience in pigeon racing! Make the molting season for your pigeons as pleasant and healthy as possible. They will thank you for it!

Until the next blog!

Jan de Wijs

Blogger, Racing Pigeon Expert and Influencer...