The European Crackdown That Hits Racing Pigeons Unexpectedly
Something remarkable is happening in Europe. Governments are taking drastic steps to control bird flu, but they rarely understand the impact on the pigeon sport. Portugal recently ordered all kept birds on the mainland to be confined because of rising HPAI risk. That includes racing pigeons. Not chickens, not ducks, but our high-performance athletes. Yet these policies treat all birds as if they are the same.
Why Racing Pigeons Cannot Be Treated Like Poultry
Portugal’s veterinary authority DGAV now requires every kept bird to stay inside, while exhibitions, markets and competitions are banned. EU Regulation 2016/429 gives governments the power to impose such measures during outbreaks. That is understandable for commercial poultry. But racing pigeons need daily movement, oxygen intake, orientation and structured training. Weeks inside a loft weakens them physically and mentally. Policymakers rarely include this basic biological difference in their reasoning.
Kassel Without Pigeons A Symbol of How Far We’ve Drifted
The confusion around bird regulations becomes even clearer when looking at major events. This year’s Kassel Pigeon Fair officially banned all live pigeons. A pigeon fair without pigeons. Thousands of fanciers were stunned and the message was crystal clear. Authorities and organisers are increasingly unaware of what the pigeon sport actually represents. When the biggest fair in Europe excludes the birds themselves, the disconnect between policy and reality becomes almost unbelievable.
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The Pigeon Sport Must Take Control of Its Own Narrative
If we don’t explain who we are, others will define us. Racing pigeons are elite animals raised under strict hygiene, controlled loft systems and clear biosecurity principles. They are closer to marathon athletes than to farm birds. We are part of the solution, not the problem. But governments will recognise that only when the pigeon community speaks with authority, clarity and pride.
What Fanciers Should Do Right Now
Stay informed about national and European bird flu rules. Invite local officials to your loft and show what responsible pigeon sport really looks like. Use social media to clearly explain the difference between city pigeons and racing pigeons. Support federations and organisations that advocate for fair, structured and proportional regulations based on science, not assumptions.
A Call for Respect and Real Understanding
The pigeon sport deserves policies rooted in knowledge. Healthy birds, strong biosecurity and fair sport can exist together. Racing pigeons are not pests. They are living heritage, high-value competitors and ambassadors of a sport that inspires millions worldwide. This moment is a wake-up call, and the pigeon community must make sure its voice is heard. If policymakers don’t understand our sport, then we will make them understand. Loud and clear. Because nobody spreads the message with more conviction than the Pigeon Boss.
Jan de Wijs
The Pigeon Boss
