How to Train Young Homing Pigeons

Pigeons are sensitive to sound frequencies and magnetic fields. Although it is always their intent to return home, they do not always do so. As a fancier, you will need to decide where to train your pigeon—-keep training conditions similar to racing conditions as much as possible.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Training baskets
• Loft
• Established routine

1. Purchase the eggs of young homing pigeons or buy them hatched at a young age. It's important to start with birds that have not flown yet.

2. Feed the young pigeons in their loft. You want them used to their home and comfortable in the loft. Keep the loft clean, cozy and attractive to the racing pigeons.

3. Take the pigeons out on a regular basis. The birds will fly around-—this is normal activity. Pigeons will flock to the ground and possibly on the loft.

4. Start training the pigeons after two to three weeks. You will know when they are ready to train-—the pigeons will leave for about an hour and then return home to feed.

5. Set up a routine of different mileage expectations. Once the birds fly for an hour and return home you can take them five miles from their home and expect positive results.

6. Train the pigeons one to two times a week. Do not over exercise the pigeons. You want them to have full recovery between training flights.

7. Chart a variety of different directions for the training exercises. The pigeons need to practice how to find their way home.

Tips & Warnings

• Pigeons like training in the morning as opposed to the afternoon.
• Have training flights only on clear days, when it is sunny and the wind is not high.
• Always alter your training schedule if you begin to lose pigeons.
• Do not push the pigeons harder than they can bear. An exhausted pigeon is not a healthy pigeon.