Breeding pigeons every year becomes more and more popular. In addition to the high decorative value, the meat of this bird is distinguished by its unique taste, which often becomes the main reason for the industrial rearing of poultry. However, both large and small poultry farms are faced with many problems associated with the breeding of pigeons, the main of which are serious mistakes in the reproduction of birds, as well as in the subsequent care of young offspring. In this article we will take a closer look at the main subtleties of breeding pigeons, as well as learn about the main secrets of successfully incubating birds with birds.
Puberty period in pigeons
From a biological point of view, sexual maturity in pigeons, regardless of the species and breed, occurs approximately 6-7 months after hatching from the egg. However, this does not mean that semi-annual chicks are ready for the active birth of offspring. The fact is that young individuals are often not able to produce healthy offspring, as their bodies are still in the process of active development.
Did you know? Pigeons were tamed by man in ancient Egypt in the 3rd millennium BC. er
That is why the fragile organs and systems of young pigeons can ambiguously affect the development of the fetus inside their bodies, which seriously affects not only the breeding value of the nestlings, but also their health. 
The most favorable period for breeding pigeons comes at the age of 1-2 years and, depending on the diet and living conditions, can last for 5-12 years.
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How many eggs are in a clutch
12-15 days after mating, the female is ready to lay eggs. Both varietal and wild pigeons are capable of giving 2-3 eggs per cycle. In this case, the delay takes place in several stages. First, the female gives one egg, then she needs a short rest to recuperate, after which she is ready to postpone the next. In most cases, it takes quite a long time between laying eggs, especially in young females, so usually the first egg is removed and placed in the incubator, otherwise the embryo of the egg may die.
Important! Only individuals aged from 1 to 5 years are suitable for selection breeding of pigeons, but if you do not manage to gather a pair of young birds, it is enough to get a young female to get high-quality offspring.
Pigeon eggs are distinguished by a rather strong shell of snow-white or slightly cream shade. Their main distinguishing feature from the eggs of other species of birds is a characteristic reflection. 
Do males help hatch eggs
Pigeons have a rather developed parental instinct, which is why males and females are engaged in caring for offspring. All the time after laying eggs, the female is on the nest, but the male must replace it for 2-3 hours, when the dove flies away from the nest for food extraction, as well as a short rest.
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If the female lingers, the male begins to grumble loudly and nervously until her return. 
Males are also well developed parental instinct.
How many days do the pigeons hatch eggs
Hatching eggs in these birds lasts for 16–19 days, but poultry farmers prepare for this process well in advance, about 2.5–3 months. At this stage, the poultry farmer will have to provide pigeons with enhanced nutrition, as well as a secluded place for the nest. At this time, comes the so-called mating season, during which the pair will have to equip the nest. For these purposes, the birds use a variety of twigs, blades of grass and other plant residues, so they should be provided with all necessary for arranging the nest.
Did you know? Pigeons are able to overcome about 900 km per day, while reaching a maximum speed of 70 km / h.
How many clutches happen per season
Pigeons breed rather intensively. In optimal conditions for the year they are able to give up to 8 clutches, regardless of the seasons. 
Although spring or early summer is traditionally considered the most favorable period, since before the onset of seasonal cold weather, the offspring should be fully formed and mature.
What chicks hatch
Nestlings hatch blind and without feathering, therefore, the new offspring at this stage is absolutely unsuitable for the surrounding world. At this time, parents intensively provide high-calorie nutrition for babies for rapid growth and weight gain. Both male and female are engaged in feeding the offspring. At first, the pigeon practically does not leave the nest, therefore only the pigeon is engaged in food extraction.
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Food for chicks can serve all kinds of insects, grain and various plant debris, carefully crushed by their parents. But the first food for the chicks is a special curd secretion extracted from the goiter of their mother, which is popularly called “bird's milk”. 
A month later, the chicks become fully prepared for independent living, and, regardless of whether they left the nest or not, after a month the parents themselves leave the nest to incubate the new offspring.
Important! Newborn chicks make quite a lot of noise, so it is not recommended to equip the pigeon house near the residential premises.Pigeons are unique birds, which are able to produce offspring for a long time several times per season, while they are distinguished by a highly developed parental instinct. However, before embarking on the active breeding of this bird, it is necessary to become familiar with the main reproduction features of these birds. Otherwise, healthy and viable offspring, most likely, will not succeed.
