The young pigeon season is a very special phase for us breeders: The animals are curious, eager to learn – but also sensitive. It is precisely now that the foundations for future racing and breeding success are laid. Targeted care, smart use of light control, and structured season preparation are crucial. In this article, I provide insight into how I prepare my young pigeons – and why I rely on products from Mifuma.
1. The right care – what young pigeons need now
The right feed for strong development: Young pigeons need easily digestible energy sources, high-quality protein, and good digestibility. At this stage, I rely on a self-tailored mix that includes Mifuma Zucht + Mauser Sonderklasse and Reise Light. The following components are particularly important to me:
Top Mais: provides quickly available energy and is easily digestible
Power-Erbsen: offer high-quality protein for muscles and development
Hemp: supports vitality, the nervous system, and plumage
This mix ensures a balanced diet – not too heavy, but performance-enhancing.
Minerals & Grit – indispensable in the loft: I provide grit and minerals daily, such as Oremin and Edelgrit mit Rotstein from Mifuma. It contains valuable minerals as well as seashells, redstone, stomach gravel, and special herbs. This strengthens the bones, supports digestion, and promotes feed utilization – a crucial advantage, especially for young pigeons.
2. Darkening – bringing calm, promoting development
Why darken? Darkening the young pigeons from March/April helps control moulting and reduce stress in the loft. The artificially extended dark phase keeps the juvenile plumage longer. This ensures:
- even development
- less aggression in the loft
- a better training base
How I do it: I darken my young pigeons daily for about 14 hours, usually from 5:00 PM to 7:00 AM. The darkening remains until June 21. It is important that the darkening is reliable and consistent – either with automated blinds or a dense curtain system. The breeder must ensure adequate oxygen supply in the loft.
3. Lighting – energy for the season
After darkening, I start with lighting – this means: I artificially extend the day to about 15–16 hours of light. For me, the lighting goes from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. This step is like a starting signal for the animals.
What it does:
- higher vitality and joy of flying
- drive is activated
- motivation and orientation increase
Here too, I pay attention to consistent lighting conditions. I work with timers to ensure a reliable rhythm. The pigeons feel this impulse very clearly – activity visibly increases.
4. Preparation for the young pigeon season
Training with a system: I start basket training early: short insertion, keeping calm, practicing transport. In parallel, I conduct structured free flights – no open loft times, but clear procedures: Out – Fly – In (during the lighting phase).
Health is the be-all and end-all: I vaccinate in time with the RP vaccine and regularly check the health condition (droppings, behavior, appetite). I use medication selectively and sparingly. I prefer to work with natural boosters, such as Hexenbier and UsneGano from Röhnfried, to support the immune system.
Conclusion: Success with Mifuma and system
The combination of targeted feeding with high-quality Mifuma products, light control, and structured preparation makes the difference for me. Healthy, motivated young pigeons that fly with joy are the best result of this work. It is worth investing in peace and quality here – because today's young pigeons are tomorrow's aces.
By Robert Maaß
