Fun Facts about Fantail Pigeons
Fantail pigeons are a group of fancy pigeons which have a remarkable fan-like tail. Fantail pigeons are subcategorized by their country of origin as Indian Fantail, Thai Fantail, Syrian Fantail and English Fantail. There is some expert research which indicates that some of this categorization is now more from habit than historical accuracy. Pigeon enthusiast will enjoy owning a fantail because this bird will make a gracious addition to any aviary. Fantail pigeons come in a few different colors although the white fantail is the most prized and also used as a show bird.
Housing
All pigeon owners should remember that it is important to give pigeons as much room as possible. While the exact home you provide for your pet may differ, factor in considerations such as safety from predators, plenty of fresh air and adequate space. Do not try to squeeze in too many pigeons into one space. It is also a good idea to put in appropriate perches for the fantail to ensure that it gets exercise and entertainment.
A good cage or loft should make sure the pigeons are protected from their natural predators such as raccoons, possums, weasels, lizards, snakes and even other birds. Mice and rats are also known to attack pigeons on occasion. The right kind of wire for the coop and ensuring that there is no debris around the loft that can attract other creatures like snakes is a good way of keeping your birds safe and sound.
Food and Water
Grains are the main component of a fantail pigeon’s diet. The bulk of the pigeon’s feed depends often on where the fancier lives because Asian fanciers serve their pigeons rice while fanciers in the West make wheat the main component. Both work well as long as there is a solid source of protein also in the meal on a daily basis. Feed supplies are often available at local pet stores which have been mixed to the specifications that work well for a given climatic condition and environmental setting. It is well worth buying these to ensure that your fancy pigeons get combination that is best for them. Pigeon pellets made of a combination of grain and protein are also good for pigeon feed. You should also make sure to add pigeon grit to your everyday feed schedule as this helps the pigeon process its food – this is not necessary with pellets but is essential with grains. Pigeons generally swallow their food whole and then use the stones in their gizzard to process the food by mashing it. It is also a good idea to feed some greens to your pigeons. If you are able to allow your birds free flying time, you will note that they do fly toward plants and eat some of them – this helps their diet stay more balanced.
Water should be replenished each day as pigeons consume a lot of water. They drink soon after eating. It is best to choose a retail watering device that lets the water out of the container when the pigeon approaches it. An open bowl of water has more chances of getting dirty and that can lead to healthy problems for your pet pigeons.
Diseases
It is good to keep yourself aware of some of the diseases that can affect your fantail pigeons. While pigeons in general are hardy creatures, they are known to get cankers, coccidiosis, worms, and occasional respiratory problems. Paratyphoid infections and paramyxovirus infections are also known to affect some pigeons. Knowing some of the basic symptoms of these illnesses is a good way of responding promptly should they affect your pet pigeon. Immediate intervention is the best way to deal with such health problems.
The graceful and elegant fantail pigeon can be an exciting pet for all the bird-lovers among us and they are not particularly hard to care for.