Simple question - what’s the typical lifespan of a racing pigeon?
And at what age do they stop being useful for racing vs. breeding?
Just planning ahead for my small flock.
Healthy pigeons can live 15-20 years. I’ve had some reach 18.
Racing career:
- Peak performance: 2-6 years old
- Can race competitively: up to 8-10 years
- Some exceptional birds race well into their teens
Breeding:
- Hens: best fertility 2-8 years, decline after 10
- Cocks: can breed productively into their teens
Each bird is different. Some age faster than others.
My oldest was 16 when he passed. Bred until he was 14.
Don’t retire them too early. Some of my best racing results came from birds 7-8 years old. Experience counts.