Training young birds in hot weather - tips?

Training & Conditioning Training Programs
1

Summer’s hitting hard here in Queensland. Already had a few days over 40°C.

Need to train my young birds but worried about the heat. What’s the cutoff temperature where you just don’t release?

Currently doing 5am releases to beat the heat but even then it’s 28-30°C by the time they get home.

Any tips for training in hot climates?

2

We deal with similar heat in South Africa. Here’s my approach:

  • No training if forecast is over 35°C
  • Release at dawn, never later
  • Keep distances short in summer (under 30km)
  • Always release near water sources if possible
  • Electrolytes in water the night before and when they return

Heat kills birds. Not worth the risk for training. Better to undertrain in summer and make up for it in cooler months.

3

Arizona here - we know heat.

I basically don’t train from June to September. It’s just too dangerous. Young birds especially can’t handle it.

When I do train in warm weather:

  • Predawn releases only
  • Maximum 20 miles
  • Ice in transport crates
  • Shade over the basket at all times
  • Cold water available immediately after release

If birds come home panting with open beaks, you’ve pushed too hard.

4

Thanks guys. Good to know I’m not being overly cautious.

Will stick to very short tosses and maybe just focus on loft flying until March. The thought of losing birds to heat stroke isn’t worth the training benefit.