A successful pigeon racing season starts long before the first race. The preparation in the weeks and months beforehand largely determines the condition, health and performance of your pigeons during the racing season. Both old pigeons and young pigeons have specific nutritional and training needs during this period.
With a structured approach and the right combination of feed and supplements, fanciers can prepare their pigeons for peak performance.
After the winter period, pigeons often have had little training and may carry some extra body fat. The first goal is therefore to reactivate the metabolism and rebuild condition.
At the beginning of the preparation phase, pigeons require less protein and fat. Light mixtures with sufficient fiber and carbohydrates help:
Mixtures such as PREMIUM VANDENABEELE or ENZYMIX 7/48 MS RECUP are ideal in this phase thanks to their light digestibility and balanced composition.
As training sessions become longer, pigeons need more energy. Gradually introducing more energetic mixtures, such as GALAXY SPORT LIGHT provides the required fuel for longer training flights.
The transition to a full racing mixture is best done shortly before the start of the racing season.
Youngsters undergo rapid growth during their first months of life. After weaning – usually at around 22 to 25 days – they develop quickly from nestlings into young racing pigeons. This stage requires a significant supply of nutrients for the development of bones, muscles and feathers.
For approximately five to six weeks after weaning, young pigeons benefit from a high-quality breeding mixture. Mixtures such as PREMIUM SUPER BREEDING, GALAXY BREEDING or OLYMPIA 52-BREEDING & YOUNGSTERS provide highly digestible proteins necessary for optimal development.
During the first juvenile moult, adding a moulting mixture can further support feather development.
As young pigeons begin to train, the balance between carbohydrates and fats becomes crucial.
Mixtures such as PREMIUM YOUNGSTERS are specifically designed for this stage, combining digestible proteins with a balanced energy supply.
About two weeks before the first training flights, the breeding mixture should be replaced with a sport mixture. This prepares the pigeons for the feeding program used during the racing season.
In addition to high-quality feed mixtures, supplements play an important role in supporting health, immunity and recovery.
Digestive and immune support
URTICA-CHLORELLA MINERAL MIX provides minerals, grit and shells combined with nettle and chlorella, which support muscle development and the removal of waste products.
During training and the racing season, supplements such as:
help pigeons recover faster and maintain peak condition.
Success in pigeon racing begins with proper preparation. By adapting the feeding strategy to each phase – growth, training and pre-season build-up – fanciers can bring their pigeons into optimal condition.
A balanced combination of:
ensures that both youngsters and old birds are ready to perform at their best when the racing season begins.
Alongside a well-balanced feeding and training program, good health and condition are the true foundation of success in pigeon racing. No feed or supplement can compensate for pigeons that are not in optimal health.
During the preparation period for the racing season, it is essential to regularly observe your pigeons and monitor signs such as:
If there is any doubt about the health status of the pigeons, it is strongly recommended to consult a specialized veterinarian in time. A professional health check before the start of the racing season can prevent many problems and ensures your pigeons are ready for the upcoming challenges.
It is equally important not to overlook necessary vaccinations. Scheduling vaccinations in time – for example against paramyxovirus – is a crucial part of responsible loft management.
Ultimately, a combination of proper care, professional health monitoring, balanced nutrition and targeted supplements creates the ideal conditions for a successful start to the racing season.
