Pigeons have been domesticated for hundreds of years.They have been trained to carry messages.The pigeons prefer company.If you plan to have only one, you should give it a lot of attention.
Step 1: Think about the commitment.
If you're sure you can offer enough time and friendship to keep your pigeon happy, you should keep a single one.You should check the local regulations to make sure you are allowed to keep pigeons.Different types of pigeons have different social needs.You should be able to set aside time every day to socialize your pigeon.
Step 2: Purchase cages.
If possible, you should have indoor and outside accommodations for your pigeon.You need to prepare them ahead of time.It will be hard for the pigeon to find a new home when it is relocated.Before your pigeon arrives, clean all cages.An ideal cage is rectangular and partially enclosed.The pigeon must be able to stick its head through the holes in the cage.The bottom of the cage should be covered with paper or grassy sod because pigeons like to walk.The cage should be in a bright area with no direct sunlight.If the cage is exposed to light at night, you should cover it in the evening.An outdoor aviary should be at least 6' square and 8' high.There should be shelves in the enclosure that are as high as possible.The enclosure needs to be strong enough to protect against outside attacks.The aviary should be oriented towards the south or southwest for maximum sunlight.The bird can use the bath to clean itself.Some breeds can be adapted to free flight.The dovecote is a small structure that can be attached to the side of the house.If allowed to fly freely, your bird could be hunted.
Step 3: Purchase food.
The mixes are designed for pigeons and doves.The best source of vitamins is a pelleted diet.Commercial mixes will require more supplements.You can add fruit and vegetables to the pigeons regular diet.Providing the pigeon with gravel will help it digest food.Pet stores sell vitamins and supplements for birds to improve their health.
Step 4: Find a bird.
There are online databases of local breeders.There are issues with abandoned pigeons.You should be able to find them at the local shelter.You should ask about the breed of pigeon and care specifications, because different breeds have different needs and behavior.Make sure you meet a few pigeons before you check for allergies, and make sure they meet your expectations.The pigeons are well cared for and the shelter is clean.It might be difficult to socialize pigeons if they are not well cared for.
Step 5: The pigeon should be kept inside at first.
If you want to bond with your pigeon, you should keep it indoors.It is important that you are in close proximity to provide company because the pigeon doesn't have any friends.The fumes from non-stick frying pans can be toxic to pigeons, so it's not a good idea to keep them in your kitchen.
Step 6: You should bond with your pigeon.
Don't touch the pigeon for the first few days, but talk and stay close to the cage.Slowly build up to petting the pigeon
Step 7: Your pigeon can explore your house.
He can come out of the crate in a small room.You will eventually be able to handle it if you repeat this daily.It will allow you to bond if you spend time handling your pigeon every day.People can get diseases from pigeons.If you or someone in your house has a weak immune system, you should check with your doctor to make sure you can share the same air space as a pigeon.You should wash your hands after handling the pigeon.Birds should not be kept in close proximity to cats and dogs.
Step 8: Move the pigeon outside.
Pigeons enjoy living outside and can live inside.It's a good idea to build an enclosure to keep your pigeon out of harms way.Do you know if your pigeon is capable of free flight?
Step 9: Get your pigeon a mate.
Pigeons will mate with a significant other for the rest of their lives.They can be territorial.If you want to prevent confrontations, introduce the pigeons to one another slowly and keep one inside to acclimatize to its surroundings.