Why I ALWAYS DIRECTLY Close My Loft
After a Training Session

By: Pigeon Boss, Jan de Wijs

As a Pigeon Boss with over 40 years of experience in the pigeon racing sport, I know that the well-being and health of my pigeons are paramount. This is not just a rule I follow, but something I adhere to every single day. One of the most important routines I’ve developed over the years is closing my loft immediately after my pigeons return from training or a race. But why am I so consistent about this?

Protection Against Stray Pigeons

Every time my pigeons return from training or a race, there’s always the risk that stray pigeons may try to enter. These stray pigeons, possibly carrying diseases or parasites, can seriously endanger my colony. Even one pigeon that isn’t in top condition can cause an infection that spreads like wildfire through my loft. By closing the loft immediately, I prevent stray pigeons from entering. This isn’t an excessive precaution but a crucial part of my strategy to keep my pigeons healthy and strong. Over the years, I’ve seen how much damage even a single infection can cause, and that’s something I want to avoid at all costs.

Get My Tips Directly In Your E-mail

Pigeon Boss, Jan de Wijs, How To, Tip

Dangers of Cross-Contamination
Cross-contamination is a significant threat in the pigeon racing sport. Stray pigeons can carry bacteria and viruses that my pigeons may not be immune to. Infections like paramyxovirus, respiratory diseases, or worm infestations can cause the condition of my pigeons to deteriorate drastically. Believe me, it can take weeks or even months for your pigeons to fully recover. For me, that is simply unacceptable.

By closing the loft, I ensure that my pigeons remain protected from these external dangers. It also gives me the opportunity to observe my own pigeons closely and intervene immediately if there is a problem. If one of my pigeons behaves unusually or shows signs of illness, I can take direct action to prevent bigger issues.

Consistency and Discipline
In pigeon racing, everything revolves around consistency. Closing the loft may seem like a simple act, but it’s a crucial step in my daily routine. By following the same procedures every time, I build a system in which my pigeons know what is expected of them, and I know exactly how to care for them.

This routine also ensures that my pigeons get the rest and recovery they need after a strenuous flight. They return to a safe, controlled environment where they can recuperate and mentally recharge for the next challenge. That’s essential for maintaining their peak condition.

Conclusion
If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the past decades, it’s that small details make the difference between a good fancier and a true champion. Closing my loft after every flight is one of those details that has defined my success. It’s a simple act but one that keeps my pigeons healthy and consistently delivers results.

As I always say, “A healthy pigeon today is a champion pigeon tomorrow.” That’s why I will always close my loft immediately after a flight, ensuring that my pigeons remain safe and protected. Prevention is better than cure, and that’s a principle I’ll never stray from.

Until the next tip!

Jan de Wijs
The Real Pigeon Boss with, over 40 years of experience in pigeon racing

Become a real pigeon boss with our racing pigeon fashion.
We use cookies
Cookie preferences
Below you may find information about the purposes for which we and our partners use cookies and process data. You can exercise your preferences for processing, and/or see details on our partners' websites.
Analytical cookies Disable all
Functional cookies
Other cookies
We use cookies to personalize content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyze our traffic. Learn more about our cookie policy.
I understand Details
Cookies
Racing Pigeon Marketing
Report abuse