UK pigeon owners

[Hokum Coco]

I am starting to feel that white doves are boring.

 

[CCUK]

I am starting to feel that white doves are boring.

No way! I'd happily swap a few with you. If you were closer of course!

 

[Hokum Coco]

Recessive genes being what they are I do have some mixed colouring in my flock. By and large most of my birds are solid white.

 

[CCUK]

The white doves are so symbolic. And beautiful too.

 

[biophiliac]

and how do you tell them apart!

 

[Hokum Coco]

Most of my Belguim blood line now can home from 100+miles. Which is good for a bird bred for colour.

 

[Hokum Coco]

There are some I can not and a permanent felt pen markers of assorted colours is a useful tool. Of course you have a few personalities the ones that greet you, and fly on you, the ones that stay aloof, and the ones with favourite roost spots that help you differentiate. Last but not least the ALPHA MALE that likes to slap and pick at me to show his dominance.

As of today I am almost up to my desired flock size of 50+ birds (perfect for wedding anniversaries). I have 49 pigeons and squabs and 2 eggs that arrived 3 days ago.

 

[CCUK]

and how do you tell them apart!

I use purple spray on my brahmas feet!

 

[CCUK]

There are some I can not and a permanent felt pen markers of assorted colours is a useful tool. Of course you have a few personalities the ones that greet you, and fly on you, the ones that stay aloof, and the ones with favourite roost spots that help you differentiate. Last but not least the ALPHA MALE that likes to slap and pick at me to show his dominance.

As of today I am almost up to my desired flock size of 50+ birds (perfect for wedding anniversaries). I have 49 pigeons and squabs and 2 eggs that arrived 3 days ago.

It's true that you can tell different birds that are the same apart. They all have different traits and mannerisms. It can be difficult at a glance though.

 

[CCUK]

Busy this afternoon I have been! I needed to make a 'safe' area for Boomer to return to the loft. She's been having a few problems getting back in through the bobwires because one of the males harangues her when she tries to go through. I was going to do this when I first built the loft but kind of ran out of steam. The framework was there it just needed finishing.

So now there is an area that she can get back in with food and water (and a few sunflower seeds!) without being harassed! It will also be good for the young 'uns when they start leaving the loft. I can leave it open and the others can't get out!