Just got my water tested and it’s harder than I expected. High mineral content.
Do you guys test your water? Does water quality affect pigeon health?
Thinking about using filtered water but that seems like overkill.
Water quality matters more than most realize.
Hard water issues:
- Can affect medication effectiveness
- May contribute to kidney strain over time
- Can affect supplement absorption
That said, pigeons aren’t super sensitive. Millions do fine on tap water.
Filtered water isn’t overkill if you’re having health issues you can’t explain. But if birds are healthy, probably not necessary.
I use rainwater collected from the loft roof. Free and soft.
Just make sure the collection area is clean and you filter debris. I run mine through a fine mesh before using.
Birds seem to prefer it to tap water.
Never tested, never had problems.
My father and grandfather used the same well water for 60+ years of pigeon keeping.
I think people overthink this. Clean, fresh water regularly changed is the main thing.