The Use of an Incubator for Racing Pigeon Eggs: An In-depth Guide

In the captivating world of pigeon racing, breeding healthy and strong racing pigeons plays a pivotal role. The use of an incubator when the pigeons are away is highly advisable and provides peace of mind for both the enthusiast and the pigeons. One thing is certain, pigeons are much more likely to settle back on their eggs if they are warm! Give it a try!

The Importance of an Incubator During the Pigeons' Absence
Pigeons can be away for various reasons during the breeding season, whether it be for training, competitions, or simply because they are momentarily unwilling to sit on the eggs. The continuity of the breeding process should not be interrupted. An incubator offers a perfect solution by safely incubating the eggs under the correct conditions, allowing the embryos' development to continue undisturbed.

The Importance of Correct Humidity
One of the most critical factors in incubating eggs is maintaining the correct level of humidity. Too little moisture can lead to the dehydration of the embryos, drastically reducing the chance of successful hatching. The ideal relative humidity for incubating racing pigeon eggs is between 55% and 60% for most of the incubation period, with an increase to about 65% to 70% in the last days before hatching. This simulates the natural conditions under the hen and ensures an optimal moisture balance within the egg.

Marking the Eggs
Careful record-keeping is indispensable in pigeon racing, especially when it comes to the lineage of champion pigeons. Marking the eggs before placing them in the incubator is an essential step that should not be overlooked. Use a non-toxic marker to provide the eggs with a unique code or date, corresponding to the data on the pedigree cards. This ensures that after the chicks hatch, the lineage can be correctly established and any mistakes in returning the eggs are prevented.

Additional Tips

• Temperature Control: The ideal incubation temperature for racing pigeon eggs is around 37.5°C (99.5°F). A stable temperature is crucial for successful development.
• Regular Turning: In nature, pigeons regularly turn their eggs to ensure even development. This process needs to be manually or automatically replicated in an incubator.
• Hygiene: Ensure that the incubator is regularly cleaned and disinfected to prevent the spread of diseases.
• Observation: Keep an eye on the development of the eggs through candling. This can help in early identification of problems.

Important Warm Return
Only return the eggs just before the pigeons (or immediately upon their return). The chance that a pigeon will resume brooding even after several days is much higher if the eggs are warm. He or she will think that the partner has just left the eggs... Cold eggs are a stress signal for every pigeon, significantly reducing the likelihood of continued brooding.

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Until the next blog,

Jan de Wijs
Blogger & Racing Pigeon Expert