Meat pigeons are typically ready for market when they are between 20 to 25 days old and weigh between 350g and 500g. However, to enhance the quality of their meat, improve taste, and achieve better economic returns, it's common practice to fatten them for an additional 5 to 7 days before sale. This process helps increase the fat content and overall flavor of the pigeon meat.
1. **Fattening Candidates**: Pigeons that are 15 to 20 days old and weigh at least 350g are ideal for fattening. These pigeons should be healthy, active, and free from injuries or deformities. They should have a well-developed body structure, full muscles, and smooth feathers. Pigeons older than 20 days but still weighing less than 350g, or those with physical injuries, should not be selected for fattening.
2. **Fattening Loft Setup**: For small numbers of pigeons, an old poultry house can be used as a fattening area. However, if many pigeons are being raised, a dedicated fattening loft is recommended. The design of the loft can resemble a double-row system, but with shorter height and smaller windows covered with curtains to reduce light exposure. Good ventilation is essential, and the floor should be tiled or cemented. The ideal temperature inside the loft should be around 25°C.
3. **Fattening Equipment**: Essential equipment includes a fattening bed, feeding devices, and immersion boxes. Fattening beds are commonly used in China and are usually about 70cm high, 30cm wide, and extend the length of the loft. The bed is divided into small sections using bamboo boards, each measuring 1 meter long, allowing for 20 pairs of pigeons per section. Feeding methods include hand-feeding, oral feeding, hopper feeding, syringe feeding, and automated feeders. Many farmers now use modified duck feeders, which are easy to clean and efficient. When using these feeders, care must be taken to avoid damaging the pigeons' mouths and tongues.
4. **Fattening Feed**: The main ingredients include corn, wheat, brown rice, rapeseed, and legumes. Small particle feeds are preferred for easier digestion. A typical formula consists of 75% to 80% energy-rich grains like corn and wheat, and 20% to 25% protein sources such as beans. Winter diets should be more nutrient-dense, especially in terms of energy. The water used to soak the feed should be between 25°C and 35°C. Larger grains should be crushed and soaked overnight to soften them before feeding.
5. **Fattening Process**: Place the pigeons on the fattening bed and begin the feeding process. Maintain a temperature of around 20°C. Each pigeon should receive 50g to 100g of feed per meal, fed twice daily. After feeding, ensure a quiet environment by closing curtains and allowing the pigeons to rest. This helps them digest properly and gain weight efficiently.
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