Why Do Baby Pigeons Keep Dying? The Sad Truth

Baby pigeon death is a common problem that many pigeon breeders and enthusiasts face. Understanding the causes and ways to prevent them is crucial in ensuring the survival of these birds.

The common causes of baby pigeon deaths include falling out of the nest, attack by worms and insects, carelessness of parent pigeons, poor diet, and diseases that can also contribute to baby pigeon deaths.

In this article of mine, I will discuss the death of pigeons in detail as well as provide you with guides to identify potential dead pigeon babies, minimize this unfortunate phenomenon, and many more.

Why Do Baby Pigeons Keep Dying? The Common Causes

Pigeons are one of the most common birds found in urban areas, and their offspring often raise questions about their survival. Baby pigeons, also known as squabs, are born without feathers and require constant care and nourishment from their parents. Unfortunately, despite their parents’ devoted care, many baby pigeons fail to survive.

There are several common causes of death among baby pigeons, and understanding these causes can help individuals take steps to prevent future fatalities. Let’s have a look at them.

Falling out of The Nest

Listen, one of the most common causes of baby pigeon deaths is falling out of the nest. These little guys are not yet fully developed and don’t have the strength or coordination to hold on tight.

Plus, if the nest is not built properly or if it’s not in a secure location, it can be easy for the babies to fall out. It’s important to ensure the nest is built correctly and in a safe location to prevent this from happening.

Attack by Worms And Insects

Another cause of baby pigeon deaths is attacked by worms and insects. These little critters can easily infiltrate a nest and start munching on the babies. It’s important to keep an eye out for any signs of infestation and take action quickly to get rid of the worms and insects. This can include using pesticides or other methods to eliminate pests.

The Carelessness of Parent Pigeons

Sometimes, the parents are the problem. Believe it or not, some pigeons just aren’t great parents. They may not be attentive enough to their babies, or they may not know how to care for them properly.

This can lead to the babies not getting the care they need and ultimately dying. It’s important to keep an eye on the parents and step in if necessary to ensure the babies are getting the care they need.

Poor Diet

A proper diet is crucial for the growth and development of baby pigeons. High-protein food is essential for the growth and development of the chick’s feathers, muscles, and bones. Without enough protein, the chicks may not develop properly and may ultimately die.

While wild bird seed may be a staple food for adult pigeons, it may not provide the necessary nutrition for baby pigeons. Wild bird seed lacks the necessary amount of protein and other essential nutrients that baby pigeons need to grow and develop properly. Therefore, feeding wild bird seed as the primary food source for baby pigeons can lead to malnutrition and death.

Diseases and Parasites

Diseases and parasites can play a significant role in baby pigeon deaths. One of the most common is paratyphoid or salmonella, which can be passed from the parents to the eggs or babies.

This can lead to infection and death. Another common cause of death in baby pigeons is trichomoniasis, caused by a protozoan parasite. This parasite is passed from the parents to the babies through the food they are fed, and it can cause severe respiratory distress and even lead to death.

In addition to these two common causes, there are a variety of other diseases and parasites that can lead to baby pigeon deaths, such as bacterial and viral infections, coccidiosis, and aspergillosis.

Improper Handling

During hatching, it’s important to handle the eggs and chicks with care. Applying too much hand pressure or mishandling the eggs can cause heavy bleeding and ultimately lead to chick death. It’s crucial to understand the proper technique for hatching and to handle the eggs gently.

If you’re new to breeding pigeons, it’s important to seek help from an expert during the hatching process. An experienced pigeon keeper can guide you on the proper handling techniques and ensure that the eggs and chicks are not harmed during hatching. Without proper guidance, it’s easy to make mistakes that can lead to chick death.

Other Predators

Another cause of baby pigeon deaths is attacked by predators. Hawks, owls, raccoons, and other animals can easily target a nest and attack the babies. It’s important to take steps to protect the nest from predators, such as building a predator-proof barrier or installing a decoy to deter them.

Matters To Consider To Reduce Baby Pigeon Mortality

Raising baby pigeons is a delicate task that requires a lot of care and attention. Unfortunately, not all baby pigeons survive, and it can be heartbreaking for bird enthusiasts who put in a lot of effort to raise them. However, adhering to some matters can help reduce baby pigeon mortality and

The environment in which baby pigeons are raised plays a critical role in their survival, especially in terms of appropriate loft hygiene. In order to ensure the health and well-being of the birds, it is necessary to maintain a clean and hygienic loft environment by regularly cleaning and disinfecting the space.

This includes paying attention to factors such as the quality of bedding material, the loft temperature and humidity, and the presence of any potential parasites or pests.

Furthermore, providing the birds with the necessary nutrition and a balanced diet is essential to ensure the survival of the baby pigeons as they develop. Therefore, adequate preparation and management of the loft environment are key factors in preserving the health and longevity of the birds.

How Do You Know If Your Baby Pigeon Is Dying?

Pigeons are fascinating creatures, but when it comes to baby pigeons, it can be difficult to tell if they are healthy or not. There are several signs that a baby pigeon may be dying, and it’s important to know them so that you can take appropriate action.

Signs of A Dying Baby Pigeon

• Inactivity: Most pigeons are very active, but when a baby pigeon is dying, it may be less active than usual. It may not move around much and may seem lethargic.
• Isolation: Sick or dying pigeons often isolate themselves from the pack. They may remove themselves from the flock and go to dark-shaded spaces.
• Decreased Activity Levels: It’s possible for a dying baby pigeon to become less active and to coo less and less.
• Fluffed or Rumpled Feathers: When a baby pigeon is not cold, its feathers may appear fluffed or rumpled, which can be a sign of illness.
• Swollen Eyes or Membranes: Swollen eyes or membranes, such as the cere, may be present in a dying baby pigeon.
• Wet or Crusty Discharge: It may have a wet or crusty discharge from the eyes, mouth, or nose.
• Dirty or Matted Feathers: They may have dirty or matted feathers.
• Missing Feathers: It may have missing feathers.
• Visible Injuries or Wounds: A dying baby pigeon may have visible injuries or wounds.

What Can You Do to Help A Sick Baby Pigeon?

• Take them to a veterinarian: If you suspect your baby pigeon is dying, it’s important to take them to a qualified veterinarian or bird specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
• Provide proper care and diet: Feeding baby pigeons a diet of regurgitated crop milk and seeds is crucial for their survival.
• Provide warmth: Providing a warming pad can help injured pigeons recover.
• Check for injuries: Check the pigeon for obvious signs of injury: drooping wing, blood, visible cuts.
• Provide seeds: If the bird is drinking and seems to be doing okay, you can provide seeds if you have them. Wild bird seed is fine in a pinch.
• Avoid buying pigeons from unwanted sources: Rearers should avoid buying pigeons from unwanted sources.

Heartbreaking Causes That Leads To The Death Of Baby Pigeons

Do Pigeons Leave Their Babies Behind to Die?

Pigeons’ nesting habits and parental behavior are fascinating. Contrary to popular belief, pigeons do not leave their babies behind to die. They are highly dedicated parents, both males and females take turns incubating and feeding their young. Pigeons’ nurturing nature reflects their strong family bond and ensures their offspring’s survival.

Conclusion

Here, I have shed light on the various reasons baby pigeons keep dying and provided tips on preventing it. From falling out of the nest, attack by worms and insects, carelessness of parent pigeons and other predators, and many factors can contribute to baby pigeon deaths.

I have also highlighted the importance of proper loft hygiene, protecting the nest from predators, and proper diet, in addition to seeking help from experts, especially for new pigeon keepers, in preventing baby pigeon deaths.

It’s important to be aware of these issues and take steps to prevent them from ensuring the survival of these beautiful birds. By understanding and addressing these issues, you can work towards ensuring the survival of baby pigeons.