The Art of Pigeon Keeping: Building and Caring for Pigeon Cages
Pigeon keeping is a popular activity in many Arab communities, serving as both a hobby and a potential source of income. Whether for personal enjoyment or as a profitable venture, successful pigeon keeping requires a comprehensive understanding of various aspects of care, including diet, housing, and maintenance. In this article, we will focus on constructing a pigeon cage—a crucial element for ensuring the well-being of your pigeons.
Building a Pigeon Cage
Materials Needed:
- Wooden planks
- Wooden posts
- Thick fabric or carpet
- Saw
- Measuring tape
- Marker
- Nails
- Hammer
- Wire mesh
- Adhesive glue
- Lock and latch
- Small wooden door hinges
- Durable plastic threads
- Screwdrivers
- Drill
Preparation Steps:
- Determine Cage Size: Base the dimensions of the cage on the number of pigeons you have.
- Indoor or Outdoor Use: Decide whether the pigeons will stay indoors or be allowed outside at times.
- Choose a Location: Select a suitable place for the cage.
- Gather Materials: Ensure all materials and tools are ready to avoid interruptions.
- Space Requirements: Follow guidelines for the space needed per pigeon.
- Pigeon Needs: Understand the environmental conditions that will promote the pigeons' health and productivity.
- Purpose of Cage: Design the cage according to whether it’s for aesthetic purposes or for breeding and investment.
Steps to Construct the Cage:
- Base Construction: Measure and cut the base using a saw. Attach four wooden posts at the corners to raise the base off the ground, preventing moisture and rot.
- Support Legs: Cut and attach twelve wooden legs to the base, distributing them evenly to ensure stability.
- Build Second Level: Cut a wooden piece to match the base dimensions for the second level, securing it to the top of the legs.
- Side Panels: Cut and attach two wooden panels to two sides of the cage, leaving space for a door and ventilation.
- Frame and Mesh: Construct a frame using additional wooden posts, cover it with wire mesh for ventilation and sunlight, ensuring no sharp edges that could harm the pigeons.
- Flooring: Cut two pieces of carpet or fabric to fit the base and upper level to retain heat and ease cleaning.
- Front Frame and Door: Build a front frame, adding a horizontal piece to create a door. Use wood for the lower part and mesh for the upper part. Install a latch and lock for security.
- Separate Levels: If breeding or separating pigeons, add partitions to create different sections in the cage.
- Roof Design: Construct a sloped, pyramid-shaped roof to prevent rainwater accumulation and snow buildup. Optionally, include a circular opening for food storage.
- Mobility: Attach wheels to the base for easy relocation if desired.
Proper cage construction is vital for the health and comfort of your pigeons, ensuring they have a safe, clean, and well-ventilated environment. By following these steps, you can create an ideal home for your pigeons, whether for leisure or commercial purposes.