Everyone talks about systems, bloodlines, supplements, and secret schedules. But let me make one thing crystal clear — the very best fanciers in the world all share one powerful secret: their pigeons are happy.
And believe me, a happy pigeon flies harder than a thousand training plans combined.
The bath moment – pure wellness for feathered athletes
Picture this: pigeons diving into their bath with full enthusiasm, water sparkling in the sunlight. That’s not wasting time — that’s pigeon therapy at its finest. A bath relaxes the muscles, removes dust and feather sheaths, stimulates circulation, and brings calm to the loft.
A pigeon that loves to bathe feels at home. And that feeling is the key to success. Because only a pigeon that feels good will fly with conviction.
My advice? Give them that bath, and do it regularly.
And if you ever think, “Not today…” just imagine someone taking your shower away. Exactly.
The loft – their home, their temple
A loft isn’t a wooden box with perches. It’s the beating heart of your colony. Everything must be right: light, air, calm.
A loft where pigeons love to be is like a home filled with laughter — that’s where real energy lives. Too warm? Too damp? Poor ventilation? Then you’re not breeding champions, you’re hosting frustrated bath lovers with feathers.
Keep the air fresh, let the sunlight in, and make sure your pigeons have the space to be themselves.
Feed, minerals, and attention – the golden triangle
People love to pretend it’s all about the newest supplement or the most expensive mix. Nonsense. A healthy pigeon doesn’t need miracles — it needs balance.
Quality grains, clean water, enough minerals, and — above all — attention. The fancier who truly observes sees it all: who’s sharp, who’s tired, who’s ready to explode with energy. That’s where championships are won — not in the basket, but at home, in those quiet moments of observation.
The moral of the story
There’s no magic potion, no secret formula.
There’s only one truth: a pigeon that’s happy, flies better.
Let them bathe, give them sunshine, peace, and space. Make sure they enjoy life, every single day. And when the trap opens, you’ll see the difference.
That’s not luck. That’s love for the sport.
Happy pigeons don’t just come home — they come home first.
Jan de Wijs
The Pigeon Boss