The challenges for any pigeon taking part are at odds with its natural development.
All pigeons build up their own biological ecosystem of micro-organisms in a closed environment which is in balance with the specific (feeding) ground and living environment, and is aligned with the ecosystems of all the other pigeons in the loft colony of which the pigeon is a part.
This is quite complex. It is quite easy to see that the additional contact with other ecosystems of pigeons from other lofts (from several regions and countries) resulting from the races (basket pressure) will be associated with problems.
The various (sickness) germs compete with each other to find a new equilibrium, with adverse consequences for their host.
However, the young pigeon intended for the one-loft race is on a tight schedule.The body weight of 15 grams at birth will increase 22 times over a period of 3 weeks.
After the crucial weaning period, with vaccinations taking place around the 6th week, there is a delicate time window in which the young pigeon must ideally be sent, and that creates a dilemma.
At this time, they are in the middle of activating their own immunity.
Indeed, the antibodies the pigeon got from its mother are already running low, and the pigeon’s own immune system is running at full speed due to natural contact with all possible pathogens in the environment, including vaccinations which must take place without delay.
Stumbling Blocks:
The loss of one-loft pigeons is also linked to the circovirus, which attacks the immune system directly, and in combination with Adeno, Herpes, Rota (possibly complicated by E Coli) can play a role up to the sixth month of life.
During this delicate period, (selective) practice programmes can cause problems and lead to many losses.
The fact is that the thousands of individual ecosystems will be mixed together upon arrival, which in combination with the movement, quarantine, vaccinations, etc. will cause enormous stress and immunity pressure.
These one-loft racing challenges can best be prepared for with the COMED breeding programme:
Lisocur+, Miobol, Roni and Stopmite
(about the food with additional Curol to create it)
This combination is aimed at the rapid development of muscles and bones, but also of the immune system.
An important asset is MIOBOL, which can make a difference as an artificial crop milk.
Blind curing is the worst thing you can do because the disadvantages far outweigh the advantages
Delaying the development of the pigeon’s own immune system and the disruption of the intestinal flora causing the metabolism – which is required for the production of strong muscles – to lag behind.
Using Stopmite to tackle parasites in a balanced and clean environment in which a good ecosystem can thrive is of the utmost importance
Many organisers looking at the pigeons that have been supplied have already noticed the difference between those that were prepared with the Comed breeding programme during their first month of life and those that had not.
]]>Background: The crop is a pouch-like thickening to the left and right halfway down the oesophagus. It stores and prepares food for digestion so that the food bolus can travel further down the oesophagus.
Above right, the crop halfway down the oesophagus.
Wave-like movements occur in the crop. The intensity, rhythm and strength of these depend on factors like hunger, nervousness and stress. These are more intense when the bird is hungry. These are completely absent when the crop is empty with the sphincter at the bottom closing ‘ waiting’ for new food.
Is artificial pigeon milk a possibility?
Its high nutritional value has led to a variety of ongoing studies.
In recent years, the market demand for ‘meat’ pigeons has risen rapidly. Pigeons are altricial (the young need intensive parental care). This sharply constrains the production efficiency of meat pigeons, which is a severe economic disadvantage in terms of breeding. So, developing artificial alternatives to natural pigeon milk for feeding the young during the breeding period may be a good solution.
However, the secretion of crop milk occurs via an extremely complicated physiological process. This process is typified by a permanent change – especially in the early period – in its highly complex composition. Crop milk is extremely high in protein and fat, and also contains enzymes, minerals, immune proteins and unknown growth factors. This makes it a huge challenge to develop artificial substitutes for crop milk partly due to the previous scarcity of studies on the nutritional needs of young pigeons.
We do know that the optimal nourishment of 0–7 day-old pigeons for growth performance requires a diet with a metabolic energy of 15.38 MJ/kg and 53.3% crude protein. However, giving artificial crop milk during this early growth stage resulted in unsatisfactory growth performance compared to young with a natural crop milk diet.
In the middle and late stages of growth, more grains enter the crop milk. To a certain extent, this reduces the difficulty in developing artificial crop milk. A supplementary diet containing 13.04 MJ/kg and 17.77% crude protein (approaching cereal nutritional values) could significantly boost the weight gain of 7–25 day-old squabs. However, as mentioned, their growth performance remained lower than a natural diet provided by their parents.
During the breeding cycle, pigeons undergo a series of behavioural and physiological adaptations during this transition period. Nutritious natural crop milk is critical for the growth and development of squabs. The young stimulate their parents to regurgitate the milk by using their peculiar flat beaks at the back of their parents’ throats.
Pigeon milk secretion is complex and controlled by the stimulation of hormones and other factors. These cause the crop tissue to change shape dramatically such that nutrients rapidly accumulate in the (epidermal) crop wall cells. This process starts in cocks and hens a few days after breeding and before hatching. All of the surface cells on the inside of the crop wall die off and eventually, together with moisture, form crop milk.
The results of some existing studies on the composition of crop milk are not sufficiently consistent. This may be due to the diversity of feed ingested by parents and possibly the sampling methods.
Pigeon milk is typified by high concentrations of proteins (64%) and fats (30%) and much lower concentrations of minerals (5–6%) and sugars (1–3%). In the first week of milk secretion, all components of pigeon milk are stable except the protein (and its building blocks, i.e. amino acids) which fluctuate to match the specific needs of the young pigeon day by day and hour by hour as closely as possible.
Currently, the growth performance of pigeons fed with artificial pigeon milk is not as good as when they are fed naturally. However, it is very clear that the development of artificial pigeon milk still has a bright future because of its potential benefits.
With Miobol, Comed has already taken an important first step. The fact is, adding Miobol to natural crop milk gives noticeably better breeding results (more muscle volume, oil drops on the feathers, earlier weaning, etc.).
Our other products in the recommended breeding programme assortment also provide useful nutritious ingredients that resemble crop milk. These include Roni, Lisocur+, Curol, Fertibol, etc. It is clear that besides the nutrients present in crop milk, it contains microorganisms essential for growth and development. The crop flora (Lactobacillus, Enterococcus, Veillonella and Bifidobacterium) is intimately involved in carbohydrate metabolism, amino acid metabolism and energy metabolism. A low (acidic) pH created by microbial fermentation in the crop acts as a barrier to pathogens.
This suggests that the microbiome in pigeon milk may play an important role in many factors, including:
Pigeon milk is the only source of nutrition for squabs in their early growth period. Studies have shown that 0–3 day-old chicks only get crop milk. Thereafter, the milk is gradually mixed with grains until it is eventually replaced by feed. Moreover, when the relative grain content in pigeon milk was increased, the growth rate of squabs significantly decreased. This suggests that pigeon milk plays an irreplaceable role in rapid early growth.
Miobol was developed as a supplement to maximally meet the special need for fats and proteins.
All products in the breeding programme also take these needs into account.
Miobol also proved to be an ideal supplement for preparation and recovery during flights due to its special composition and influence on energy metabolism.
These reasons explain why there is a strong link between the breeding and flying programmes:
Sources:
https://forum.mikroscopia.com/topic/18235-pigeon-le-lait-de-jabot-histologie/
https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQmowtoeC_pDZeEnsP3YCmKMkKO-J6ViDTF-A&usqp=CAU
]]>Moreover, this damaging inflammation of the arteries can spread to other organs. The calcified spots (‘plaque’) also form the dangerous blood clots (thrombosis).
Anyone considering stopping vaccination would do well to test their antibodies before heading out unprotected. ❄️
What about safety? Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) is a possible complication of the m-RNA vaccine (1 in 100,000 people), usually occurring within seven days of vaccination in men under 40, and is relatively mild with usually full recovery. Studies suggest that increasing the interval between vaccinations may help.
Proteins differ from carbohydrates (sugars) and fats (lipids) in their composition. In addition to hydrogen (H), oxygen (O) and carbon (C), they also contain a nitrogen (N) atom, which is an important chemical component in the formation of amino acids. The body's main building blocks are these amino acids (N-CHO). Carbohydrates and fats (CHO) are more likely to be involved in energy generation.
Depending on emergency needs, there is a certain degree of interchangeability between these three types of nutrients (fat, protein and sugar).
Protein overfeeding causes discomfort when excess nitrogen (N) is excreted as ammonia (NH3). This displaces the acid that protects against pathogens in the gut.
In nature (flora), excess nitrogen (versus over-fertilisation) displaces flora biodiversity and thoroughly disrupts the ecosystem (monoculture of rampant plants), hence the current 'nitrogen' debate in the agricultural sector.
Pigeons are granivores (grain eaters). Their diet contains less protein than that of insectivores and omnivores.
Although pigeon feed's recommended crude protein content is between 12% and 18%, this has not been experimentally established. It is based on breeding results rather than maintenance requirements.
We know that racing pigeons are at risk of disease and also carriers of infection. Despite being domesticated for more than 7,000 years, their need for dietary protein to maintain their defences against (these) diseases has received little attention in the composition of their diets.
The pigeon's immune system comprises two components: the innate immune system and the acquired (humoral) immune system.
The acquired immune system can be activated if the innate immune system fails to overcome an invading pathogen.
Traditional studies use a balance between nutrient intake and excretion concerning maintaining body weight. The proper functioning of the immune system in relation to diet has rarely been considered.
In healthy pigeons, only a relatively small proportion of the daily protein intake (or its building blocks, the amino acids) is required for the immune system (consisting of a combination of cells and proteins) to function correctly. However, when the immune system is activated, the protein requirement increases. Young pigeons can develop a negative protein balance.
For example, in 2016, La Trobe University in Melbourne studied whether pigeons' immune systems functioned efficiently on diets containing 6, 10 or 14% crude protein.
Various antibodies (mostly in protein form) were subsequently measured in the blood.
However, in these pigeons, compared to diets with higher levels of crude protein (10 and 14%), the essential immune functions of the innate immune system - in which immune cells (heterophils) and substances rapidly migrate to the site of infection to engulf and eliminate invading pathogens - were reduced.
Curiously, some pigeons fed the 6 and 10% crude protein diets had parasites found in the gut (at the level of Peyer's patches) at autopsy; pigeons in the 14% group had no parasites. However, none of the pigeons in the study had previously had a parasite infection.
To maintain acquired immune function in pigeons, 6 and 10% crude protein diets are insufficient.
Research has shown that caged pigeons weighing 360 g a day need at least 3 g and 5 g of pure protein to keep their immune systems working. During the breeding or racing period, pigeons need more.
Comed offers ENERCOM, a pure plant protein.
One tablespoon per kilo will increase the amount by 1 gram per pigeon per day.
Johan Cruyff's rule of "every advantage has its disadvantage" applies here. No matter how good the proteins are, we must always bear in mind that one too many is converted into ammonia, which immediately weakens the crucial acidity in the intestines and allows the germs of disease to emerge.
In an insufficiently acidic gut, minerals are not absorbed as well.
This ammonia problem can be solved perfectly with RONI, which puts things right by introducing live acid-producing bacteria into the digestive system.
]]>Although science can never guarantee 100% safety, the high efficacy rate is a fact. I have 100% confidence in a tight international network of university centres. Dedicated scientists staff them. We have already forgotten the images of columns of military refrigerated lorries driving through Italian communities collecting over 500 COVID-19 bodies
The best fraudsters always add a little truth to their thesis to maximise confusion and increase credibility. In the USA, for example, a video has gone viral about a mother who stormed into a classroom in a rage to express her displeasure at the aggressive LGTBI lessons. The reactions were tremendous.
Even though...
The mention at the end of this clip that it was just a sketch made with actors to highlight the issue's sensitivity has been cut.
https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/mother-tears-pride-flag-off-school-wall-video/
I support the government's call for vaccination based on international basic research by the world's best virologists.
In pigeon racing, riboflavin, or vitamin B2, is rarely discussed. It is, therefore, commonly referred to as "the forgotten vitamin". The fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K and the water-soluble vitamin B1 (which we wrote about in a previous blog) are essential in racing pigeons.
The less obvious vitamin B2 is involved in the cellular release of energy from fat, protein and carbohydrates through their conversion into glucose (glycogen). Vit B2 is a powerful antioxidant and thus has protective effects in the broad sense.
It affects calcium metabolism. Deficiency results in thinner eggshells and weaker bones, with slow growth to death after a few weeks, reduced laying and poor hatching, diarrhoea, curled toenails, paralysis (one leg forward), etc …
A deficiency of riboflavin (vitamin B2) was shown under the microscope to have a remarkable effect on the nerve fibres (myelin) coating. However, once the deficiency was replenished, everything recovered quickly. There were no lasting adverse effects (provided the deficit did not last too long). Deficiency in pigeons occurs under a dose of 1 mg per kilo of feed 👇
However, the majority of cereals contain a multiple of this amount per kilo:
Corn germ 30 mg
Wheat germ 25 mg
Millet 27 mg
Oats 20 mg
Peas 20 mg
Soy 21 mg
Sunflower 16 mg
Hemp 2,8 mg
Barley 0,62 mg
Rice 1 mg
In practice, beware of feeding a poor mixture containing much barley, for example. In such a case, a carrier pigeon can suffer from a lack of vitamin B2.
For other poultry species, there are studies in which certain abnormalities have been observed due to the inferior quality of the feed (see below).
The breakdown of vitamin B2 in flour is much faster than in cereals, where it is better protected. This is due to more rapid oxidation. This is true even if the absorption of vitamin B2 in the small intestine is impaired due to unavoidable circumstances.
Some diets high in protein and fat can interfere with the vitamins of the B group and lead to deficiencies.
In a previous blog, for example, I recommended that when you are feeling down, you make your diet less rich by adding 10% rice or barley ...
Some fanciers go even further.
Someone on a full barley diet will need to ensure that they supplement with vitamin B2 …
Barley and rice contain a meagre amount of vitamin B2, which could lead to deficiency.
Vitamin B2, or riboflavin, is susceptible to UV light.
When dissolved in water, it gives a typical yellow colour ("flavum" in Latin means "yellow"). A solution in water in direct contact with sunlight will fade after a short time (a few hours). Vitamin B2 breaks down into inactive but harmless components.
Comed is developing a product to counteract the adverse effects of basket pressure during transport. These include less weight loss due to stress and heat and a less stressed immune system.
Fluctuations in temperature and humidity are particularly challenging. The product will be given on the day of the basketing. During the tests, it was discovered that this product also eliminates the influence of direct UV light on the decomposition of vitamin B2 in the pot. The solution does not discolour and remains bright yellow for several days. We will test it next flight season and hope to market it afterwards.
While taking a bath, Archimedes discovered that the buoyancy of a body immersed in a liquid equals the weight of the displaced fluid. He shouted, "EUREKA!" (I've found it!) and ran naked into the street, forgetting to put on his clothes in all the excitement. (Wikipedia)
Riboflavin deficiency symptoms
Several of Comed's preparations (picture above) contain an appropriate amount of vitamin B2. Overall, vitamin B2 is very safe and non-toxic.
We will be at the following exhibitions and hope to see you there!
]]>We will be at the following exhibitions and hope to see you there!
71° Campeonato Mundial de Ornitologia | January 19- 29, 2024 |
Olympiad | January 26- 28, 2024 |
Fugare | February 17-18, 2024 |
Expo Houten | March 2 - 3, 2024 |
Interzoo Nuremberg | May 07-10, 2024 |
Location: Paseo de Fernando de los Ríos, 45600 Talavera de la Reina, Toledo, Spain
Organisation: FOCDE
Category: Birds
More information: https://mundial2024focde.com/
Location: Forum 100, 6229 GV Maastricht, Netherlands
Organisation: Dutch Pigeon Keepers Organization
Category: Pigeons
More information: https://www.mecc.nl/en/en/events/olympiade-2024/
Location: Kortrijk Expo, Doorniksesteenweg 216, Kortrijk (Belgium)
Organisation: Fugare
Category: Pigeons
More information: https://www.mecc.nl/en/en/events/olympiade-2024/
Location: Meidoornkade 24, 3992 AE Houten (Netherlands)
Organisation: Proff Sport
Category: Pigeons
More information: https://expohouten.nl/evenementen/proffsport-voorjaarsbeurs-11/
Location: Nuremberg Exhibition Centre, Messezentrum 1, 90471 Nuremberg (Germany)
Organisation: WZF GmbH
Category: Birds & Dogs
More information: https://www.interzoo.com/en
]]>The banks are us, "the people", especially with their most sensitive side, their pennies. Money is a source of existential security: the future, independence, freedom, satisfaction, power, access to property, etc.
The bankers are the high priests of the money world.Today, more than ever, they are under pressure from public opinion because of their shameless greed and lack of scruples. But the banks, that's us, are in charge of people's money for a fee, mainly for the satisfaction of primitive instincts, primitive greed...
Their products and the game's rules are purely technical, focusing solely on returns and risk management (loss, fraud). No matter how friendly and trustworthy they are, banks always have their fundamental image problem: they are socially worthless and drain society.
But the banks ... that means we …
Meanwhile, weather stations worldwide have recorded the warmest summer on record. It will also be the coolest of all the years to come...
This is also caused by ... ourselves ... so to speak.
Testosterone, a predominantly male hormone, drives many beneficial processes and the antisocial behaviour that underlies these harmful excesses.
Women have significantly less testosterone, making them better suited to the current world order in many ways than men. They are in charge of the long-term rescue of our planet's ecosystem, which is in great distress and vital to all biological life.
Humanity increasingly recognises the urgency but must first pass the buck regarding who will foot the bill for averting catastrophe. Moreover, "truth as a cardinal point" in Western democracies will likely be lost globally. Major autocratic powers have not experienced these hard-won "enlightenment values". Visiting the Pantheon in Paris is recommended when finishing primary school.
It is to be hoped that corruption will increasingly be seen as harmful and to be resisted in modern autocratic state structures.
Our caring mothers are, unfortunately. still waiting ...
A curious study on the relationship between pigeons' body weight and its effects on dominance should help us better explain the positive impact of Miobol.
What was the trial all about?
Group dominance hierarchies (rank, pecking order) were tested for stability over successive years using a closed population of captive homing pigeons.
It was also investigated whether a hierarchical structure (we will refer to it as "rank" for convenience) was directly related to body weight and, if so, whether this relationship was linear. In mathematics, this is called a function.
(It relates to two sets X and Y, where each element x (weight) from X has exactly one element y (rank) from Y).
If you plot these values on the xy axis of a graph and a line appears, this is called a linear relationship. Each rank corresponds to a weight.
The rankings were stable and correlated with body weight, but they could be quickly disrupted by artificially manipulating (increasing) it...
Conversely, as soon as the weight was removed, the original rank order was restored just as quickly
..
Many animals live and travel in groups. This has several advantages:
But there are also disadvantages. Within a group:
Such conflicts have likely led to the emergence of a rank order within the group through evolution.
Rank order thus benefits group members by, for example, reducing the incidence of physical conflict. Still, it can also result in some lower-ranking group members being denied access to resources (including food, territory, etc.).
A linear ranking order of precedence exists in a population of pigeons in a confined space that remains stable over time.
Here, we discuss a study showing that this stability can be disrupted by artificially adding weight to pigeons, usually in the bottom 50% of the hierarchy. These low-ranking pigeons immediately became more aggressive and moved up the order due to this weight loading (small lead blocks on their backs).
However, this effect was only seen in the cocks and not in the hens. The hierarchy immediately returned to its previous structure after removing the artificial weight.
This disruption of stable rank implies a strong link between body weight and social behaviour, suggesting that an individual's personality can be altered by artificially manipulating body weight.
Study
Seventeen pigeons were housed at the Royal Veterinary College (Hatfield, UK) (eight males, nine females). All the pigeons were six years old. They had been purchased when they were one year old. They were housed in a pigeon loft and had unrestricted access to food and water. During the study period, no pigeons were added to the group.
The pigeons were first studied at three different points in the annual cycle for three consecutive years to determine the ranking. Nineteen months after the start of the study, the nine pigeons that occupied the lowest positions in the rank order were artificially weighted with a lead weight. This weight was attached to the pigeons 4 hours before the start of the experiments using self-adhesive lead bicycle balance weights. The importance of the consequences was 5 g, and the artificially added extra body weight was 12 % of the weight of the pigeons. The value of 12% was chosen because it aligns with the natural variation in the body weight of pigeons during the annual cycle. The pigeons were familiar with the bio-logging devices attached to their backs from previous studies. The weights were removed immediately after the trials. The following rank assessment - without weights - occurred the day after the artificial weighting. The ranking was performed using calibrated protocols to assign an objective dominance score to each pigeon. Squeaking, chasing, beak grasping, neck pulling and flapping were the main behaviours measured.
Ranking within a group can benefit all members. It can reduce the severity and frequency of physical conflicts. Reducing the time spent on rivalry can be spent on other important behaviours such as maintaining plumage, vigilance and foraging. Ranks are often linear (directly proportional) within animal communities.
That is, higher-ranking individuals dominate all lower-ranking individuals. Linear hierarchies are typically linked to body weight or size. They are both stable and unstable over time: the extent of variation in rankings over time appears to be related to specific life history features, where groups of animals are either restricted to a particular area or live together for more extended periods (which tends to lead to stable hierarchies). For example, there were significant changes in the rank order of pigeons at the time of withdrawal from the group.
Does the ranking work differently when there are vast groups of pigeons (one loft races)?
Is ranking different in the air than on the ground? Look at the previous blog, where the leaders of a flock are replaced during the flight if they are not making good decisions...
Not to mention the catastrophic flights that led to a profound change in the group's composition.
When extra weight was added (in green), the rank order changed significantly (Figure c) but remained linear (directly proportional); the rank order observed when nine pigeons were artificially weighted (a grey area) was very different from all seven unweighted rank orders. The rank order changed significantly when pigeons were artificially weighted. On average, the nine individuals whose weight was artificially manipulated had an increase in aggression, a significant increase in their rank. On average, the artificially weighted pigeons increased the number of aggressive behaviours: not all pigeons increased their aggressive behaviours.
The maximum decrease in aggressive behaviour observed in the artificial pigeons was 38.33%. (The maximum and minimum increases were 750% and 11.3% of the pigeons whose aggressive behaviour increased).
There was a significant interaction between sex and the amount of weight loaded. Rank was increased in cocks when extra weight was loaded. Hens loaded with additional weight did not differ from their unloaded counterparts in behaviour and subsequent rank measurements.
Adding weight resulted in an overall increase in aggression in the population; of the total number of aggressive interactions recorded, there was a stable relationship within rivalry relationships between weighted and non-weighted pigeons.
How dominance and body weight interact within and between seasons is not fully understood. In response to significant life history events such as breeding, moulting and (presumably) the racing season, body weight can vary significantly over the annual cycle. How these changes in body weight are reflected in the stability of the rank order and the position of individual pigeons within it is likely to significantly impact the overall dynamics of the group and the level of aggression.
Therefore, a better understanding of how (rapidly) rankings change with small, rapid changes in body weight has the potential to provide insights into both collective and individual energy use.
We can only conclude that a heavier cock is also more dominant and can therefore afford a privileged position.(E.g. easier access to food, partner...). Now that we know that more weight - a rounder, more enormous cock, for example - leads to a higher ranking, we can expect this to lead to better sporting performance.
The relationship between the mean body mass (graph above) and the mean rank for seven unweighted measures of the pecking order.
I spent a long time thinking about this survey. I want to invite every fancier to do the same. It gives us a curious insight into the fundamental behaviour of our pigeons. Among other things, also the behaviour (in a loft race) when the group is (too) large for the efficient organisation of a ranking.
Is there a link between the effect of Miobol - which produces round, muscular pigeons - and the fact that the hens can undoubtedly take advantage of this phenomenon?
...
Could it be that a well-performing submissive cock becomes more dominant and surpasses itself (athletically) through a temporary increase in volume?
Indeed, consistent with the energy management performance model, body size measures (height and weight = "round pigeon") and resting metabolism positively correlate with rank. As mentioned above, it is all in the function of saving energy. This is of crucial importance for endurance and recovery. We are privileged to be able to refine these findings.
In the meantime, Miobol, which supplies round pigeons, has become a permanent fixture in every feeding schedule throughout the year
Very particular …
Similarly, a phenomenon we cannot fully explain is the significantly earlier weaning (at least one week) after using Miobol.
Is it better for temporarily dominant parents
To wean their offspring?
Sources:
https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2022.04.18.488671v1
https://www.ikwoonleefzorg.nl/financien/waarom-sparen-altijd-een-goed-idee-is
]]>At Comed, we constantly strive in our quest for perfection when evolving new versions of our products. This makes it increasingly harder to categorise products in order of importance. They have all become equally perfect. We prefer to speak of a relative order of importance.
This simplifies usage and regimes.
Expanded (previously)
In the expanded regimes, we put the most important products first, then listed those that are less important. This provided options for every budget.
To a few products (now)
In the meantime, we established that a handful of products each time are almost equally important in the typical seasonal periods. So, we recommend that you give these all together.
Sequence of products
If you want to reduce the dose, we recommend you still use all products, but at a lower dose (¾th, ½st, etc.) based on the desired outcome.
The huge advantage here is that you provide feed that does not change in flavour every day, which we all know our birds do not like.
The sequence in which we list the products – from top to bottom – is a nod to the past. Enthusiasts who prefer to experiment with just two or three products can allow for this relative order of importance.
The other remaining products in the extensive Comed range have specific purposes.
Product choice during the preparation for breeding
1) Lisocur +
2) Fertibol
3) Miobol
4) Roni
5) Stopmite
6) Clean Oral
Everything is possible for egg food.
Roni and Clean Oral can always go with drinking water
Product choice during the breeding period
1) Lisocur +
2) Fertibol
3) Miobol
4) Roni
5) Stopmite
6) Clean Oral
Everything is possible for egg food.
When giving seed, you can make products sticky with Curol of Megabactol.
Roni and Clean Oral can always go with drinking water
Product choice during the exhibition period
1) Winmix
2) Curol
3) Miobol
4) Roni
5) Stopmite
6) Clean Oral
7) Exibi
When giving seed, you can make products sticky with Curol of Megabactol. Roni and Clean Oral can always go with drinking water
Product choice during the moulting period
1) Winmix
2) Curol
3) Miobol
4) Roni
5) Stopmite
6) Clean Oral
7) Murium
When giving seed, you can make products sticky with Megabactol. Roni and Clean Oral can always be combined in the drinking water
Against the alarmists who proclaim the "sixth wave of extermination", their opponents say that it is not nearly as bad as that and that, if the figures are analysed over a long period, there is nothing abnormal about it...
Such a wave of extinction is defined as the disappearance of at least 75 per cent of the living species on the planet.
Source: https://www.vrt.be/vrtnws/nl/2023/08/05/bosbranden-catalonie/
We have no choice but to organise our planet on a global scale, where it is no longer acceptable for one country to pollute its air, water or soil across borders and for other (neighbouring) countries to suffer in resignation.
The recommendations of the climate conferences are far too non-committal, and based on the right of self-determination, any nation can continue to pollute with impunity and saddle future inhabitants with a vast self-created garbage dump...
UNO's powers should be expanded to deal with violators and enforce the rules. The blue helmets must become a real enforcement force - the global climate police.
E. Coli
We are still getting questions about the persistent E. Coli infection in youngsters.
Dear,
It was on the Internet that I came across you by chance.
I started racing pigeons four years ago, and every year I suffer from Coli just before the pigeon races!!!!!!! They are, therefore, unable to race, which means that as yearlings, they are so inexperienced that I end up losing many pigeons!!!! Can I do anything about this? How can I keep my pigeons free of Coli and breed them like all the others?????
Hope you know how to fix this.
It turns out that E. Coli prevents a standard training programme, which severely strains a successful sporting career as a yearling and/or old pigeon.
This bacillus is a commensal (Latin: "communis mensa", meaning "common table"), meaning that it lives permanently in the intestine. It has nothing wrong if it makes up a small percentage of the gut flora.
However, significant bacterial complications occur when this bacterial population begins to overgrow. Such an escalation of E. Coli is always secondary, and the cause is a viral infection. The first suspect is herpes (also Rota, Reo and Adenovirus), with inflammation of the air sac, heart (membrane) and liver as a complication. As previously explained, every pigeon carries antibodies against the herpes virus (endemic).
Soon after hatching, the virus is transmitted from the parents to the young through the beak and by feeding them with the milk of the crop (probably not through the egg). The symptoms may or may not be visible in the respiratory tract, but the mucous membranes of the intestines and liver are not spared either (in the latter case, the pigeons are very sick and depressed).
Vaccination against the herpes virus seems to be a logical approach. However, the results are far from obvious. For example, the renowned Dr H. De Weerd is openly against it. What is worse, he has clinically diagnosed an exacerbation, sometimes fatal.
In this context, Professor Ab Osterhaus concluded that, concerning the herpes virus in general and in pigeons in particular, he did not see a vaccine against it, partly because so many pigeons are latent disease carriers.
However, vaccination against rotavirus would only have a limited effect.
The solution is obvious and remarkably simple. The herpes virus, which is dormant in all pigeons, must be prevented from re-emerging at any time, and the only way to do this is to keep the pigeons in excellent condition. It now turns out that the parasites are the biggest condition eaters of all. In fact, young pigeons, which are still growing a lot and need to develop functionally, use all their reserves. This puts a strain on their defence mechanisms.
At the same time, they need to learn everything about pigeon life, which is stressful and exhausting to discover.
Therefore, the loft should be kept dry and well-ventilated without any draughts. Having lost youngsters in the past, breeders should not be tempted to anticipate overcrowding. Nor should they be too "selective" in their youngster programmes, lest they eliminate potential champions - in other words, throwing out the baby with the bathwater.
However, we have tried to make it as easy as possible for the fancier.
Stopmite is the perfect tool to meet these needs. It keeps the cages clean and parasites away, which is crucial in this issue.
]]>High temperatures in cities were found to cause health problems, particularly in the heart, lungs and kidneys ...
Removing vegetation, adding asphalt and using materials that absorb and retain heat exacerbate global warming in urban versus rural areas.
Amsterdam. 1 million trees, including 300,000 managed by the city
The situation is worst in southern and eastern Europe, particularly in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. Here, the most significant temperature difference was reported at 4.1 degrees.
The Lancet research team found that increasing the number of trees planted in cities is best complemented by other climate-friendly measures as part of an overall green infrastructure.
As for the tree, the last has yet to be discovered. Their roots could also communicate over long distances through the complex underground network of fungi (they inform each other of significant changes such as the arrival of insects, heat, rainfall, etc.).
It is safe to assume that animals in general, and pigeons in particular, are also involved in far more social interactions as a function of the common good of their species than we might suspect.
It is all coordinated at a distance, thanks partly to pheromones (special scent carriers), about which we still need to gain more knowledge. Very interesting and hopeful: to be continued.
The young pigeon competition is challenging, partly due to several infectious diseases. These are game-changers lurking around every corner. Trichomonas has a solid reputation in the group of parasites called 'protozoa', along with coccidiosis, toxoplasmosis and hexamitiasis.
Parasites, especially when combined with the increased temperatures of the competition season, take advantage of the contaminated baskets, litter and soil on which they are found in large numbers. So it goes without saying that it all starts with good (loft) hygiene.
Bron: https://www.nfdo.nl/nieuws/besmettelijke-vogelziekte-het-geel-in-meerdere-regios
"The yellow" is widespread among homing pigeons worldwide. 80% of pigeons are infected, but most remain under the radar without many symptoms, such as a slightly red throat. Therefore, they are sometimes considered normal mucous membranes (commensals) inhabitants.
It is mainly the young pigeons that suffer the most, which makes sense. They consume many reserves due to their growth and sensitivity to stress. The infection is mainly transmitted through the beak (scavenging) and drinking water, where the bacteria can survive for several hours.
After infection, the first symptoms appear on day 4.
This is a sticky, viscous, cheese-like yellow deposit on the throat's mucous membranes, which can even affect the jawbone, oesophagus and crop in the worst cases.
The infections can cause severe damage deep into the system.
If young pigeons are performing poorly, drinking heavily and dropping thin droppings, it is time to inspect the throat and beak, where the classic yellowing symptoms usually appear. Depending on the severity of the condition, blood vessels and organs such as the liver may be affected, causing irreversible damage.
Latent herpes (=endemic = every pigeon is a carrier) can trigger trichomoniasis and vice versa due to poor condition. Trichomonas can undermine the quality of the mucous membranes and the condition to such an extent that the herpes virus can flare up. This can result in one Eye cold (coryza) or smallpox.
Bacterial infections (Pasteurella) may or may not complicate these outbreaks.
Young pigeons are more susceptible. Their resistance is still limited and can be rapidly reduced (e.g. by external parasites) (Stopmite). This can lead to outbreaks of herpes, which in turn can trigger trichomoniasis.
However, over many generations, pigeons developed various non-immunogenic defence techniques.
A peptide called "defensin", released in the intestinal wall cells, punctures the cell membrane of the trichomonas parasites, causing them to leak and die.
NO (nitric oxide), a natural vasodilator released when exercising, is known to inhibit the growth of Trichomonas (and other germs too). However, this non-immunological approach is thwarted by Trichomonas. Trichomonas can intercept arginine, an intermediate step required for NO production.
NO also plays a role in mucosal (in)permeability. Trichomonas can also facilitate entry into the bloodstream by intercepting arginine. Pigeons with naturally efficient NO production are less likely to be affected by this disease.
That is why we include the amino acid arginine in our formulas. The mucus of the intestinal wall also plays an important role. It is a highly complex structure that 'sticks' to the intestinal lumen where the parasite manifests.
Comed has pioneered developing intestinal conditioners for decades to support the above processes in the intestinal mucus defence line with the necessary supplements...
In a nutshell, "the yellow" is a pot of misery caused by a jumble of interacting germs under the leadership of Trichomonas.
The imidazole family of drugs: ronidazole, carnidazole, metronidazole, dimetridazole, etc., are the classic drugs against "yellow".
This last one is effective, but it is also toxic. In particular, it irritates and dries out the skin so that the experienced eye of the fancier will soon notice that the plumage is less shiny.
Resistance to these drugs can also develop quickly. In any case, it is not advisable to combine them with antibiotics, as this can considerably reduce their effectiveness and even increase the "yellow". It is essential not to start a metronidazole therapy, for example, for less than seven days because of the high risk of resistance.
In one study, treatment of trichomoniasis with metronidazole was compared with treatment with aqueous garlic extract.
It turned out that this protected the pigeons exceptionally well. The garlic extract group had a higher body weight and lower mortality than those treated with metronidazole.
The study involved 48 pigeons divided into four groups.
Each young pigeon from the other three groups was infected with trophozoites.
In group 4, the garlic extract had the highest anti-trichomonas activity. The duration of treatment was reduced from 7 to 5 days. The pigeons in group 2, infected and not treated, suffered from macrocytic hypochromic anaemia (a severe form of anaemia), whereas the young birds in groups 3 and 4 had average blood counts.
There was an increase in total serum protein (albumin and globulin), indicating a beneficial effect on the immune system. Total cholesterol and liver enzymes ASAT and ALAT were reduced in groups 3 and 4 compared to group 2 (if elevated = damage to the lifestyle).
Unlike coccidiosis, a pigeon can't build up a resistance to trichomoniasis, so letting it "sweat it out" is not a good strategy.
Immediate attention to the problem is undoubtedly necessary during the flight season. The above results indicate that garlic is a superior herbal agent for protecting the racing pigeon against trichomoniasis. Therefore, a non-medicinal herbal approach is currently preferred by the scientific community.
When it comes to getting rid of "the yellow," natural protection methods are the way to go. The Comed method provides an excellent outline for achieving this. Products such as Roni, Curol, and Comedol contain purified garlic extract, which has been proven effective in combating this issue.
In this sense, the regular (preventive) cures with the - drugs of the imidazole group - are hopeless. In addition to garlic, several other plant compounds have similar effects to those in Lisocur + etc.
To conclude, we can't help but repeat ourselves:
Comed is the place to be
Science - Advice - Insight – Confidence
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488107/
The more I talk to the great champions, the more I see in them a certain moderation, a self-confidence that is in control. Of course, many fanciers are also tense and impatient by nature. They want to overdo everything, do their best, all too often by force. This does not necessarily mean that they will automatically perform badly, but it cannot be ruled out that this will harm the game.
Great fanciers are more or less in control of everything, even their own lives, with the result that there is inner peace which inevitably has an effect on the pigeon colony. It is a feeling of supreme bliss for the fancier to be in control and often to share in the prizes.
Bringing a pigeon body into the performance mode does not mean that all the knobs have to be turned to the maximum. In fact, the essential principle is that too much is too much.
For a manufacturer of nutritional supplements, one of the main concerns is ensuring that the dosage provided is correct. One of the problems is often that the fancier thinks, "Oh well, it's just a harmless food, so giving a little bit more can't do any harm..."
This may be true for some ingredients, but the disadvantages usually worsen when overdosing becomes commonplace... It is very important to do the right thing because the effect of our products is significantly reduced by careless use. The difference in results between correct and incorrect dosages is significant and, therefore, regrettable.
We repeat that giving the same food every day (except the basketing day) is very important. The taste of the water and the food will always be the same for the pigeon and the metabolism will not have to adjust to a new equilibrium every time the dosage changes.
The one-off "surprise" from switching to all-natural products on the day of the basket can give the metabolism a natural boost.
Fats are a crucial example. They are more than twice as caloric as sugars or proteins and provide 70% of the energy during a race.
They are a much lighter fuel for the heart and muscles and are essential for racing flights.
Without fat, it is impossible to perform at the level of an average race.
Worse still, when there is a shortage, the body immediately switches to protein consumption (the muscles are used up), which leads to ammonia secretion in the intestines, opening the door to infections.
We have therefore calculated the ideal quantities for the correct dosage in relation to the amount of work required.
Burning fat also releases twice as much water into the bloodstream as burning sugar and carbohydrates. Adequate fat intake, therefore, also protects against dehydration during flight.
The Vitesse programme requires slightly less fat than the Long Distance programme, so we prescribe extra fat for the latter (using Loadcaps or Loadpull).
For this efficient product, an adjusted amount has also been calculated, logically in proportion to the number of kilometres to be covered. If we feed too much oil or fat, we can crowd out the digestion of other nutrients or even the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K.
Glucose or dextrose can be helpful and is consumed while flying.
However, these carbohydrates must first be converted to fat. During exercise, they can be oxidised to pure energy (with carbon dioxide and water as by-products, similar to consuming fat from grains and legumes).
Therefore, the longer the period between basketing and flight, the more limited their contribution will be.
The choice of food (to which the products are added) also plays an important role. Soya, sunflower seeds, linseed, hemp and peanuts are excellent fat sources.
However, the condition may lag a little if one feeds too heavily. Ideally, throwing a few feathers of down on top of the morning dung is a sign of a good balance between nutrition and fitness... If we are too heavy on nutrition, the down will be left behind, and we will simply have to feed some (e.g. 10%) barley or rice on top. Note that excess down can often indicate poor shape.
Consider all these details for an ideal dosage and always start with the given dosage .... and common sense.
We experience that many fanciers still have questions or difficulties applying the new regulations and are often stuck in their old system.
So please do not hesitate to let us know if you would like to talk to us about this in more detail.
Our intention is to have intensive co-operation to maximise the benefits of the Comed method.
Until soon!
Jean-Louis Jorissen
It is now almost 50 years since the last branch of the quinolone family of antibiotics was discovered (e.g. Baytril), starting with penicillin in 1928.
Afterwards, no new antibiotic came along. In fact, it is so expensive to develop that the pharmaceutical industry has abandoned it because there is no revenue model.
It takes 12 to 14 years to discover and market a new drug. It is not only a long and costly process, but also financially risky because there is no guarantee of success. Understandably, if a new antibiotic were to be "developed", the government could either strictly limit its use to prevent resistance, or allow its mass use, which would again raise the spectre of resistance. Either way, the return on investment is uncertain in both cases.
Reducing the luck involved in searching for molecules and replacing it with a reasoned model based on artificial intelligence would greatly increase the probability of finding a molecule and significantly reduce development time and costs.
Of course, it will not happen that quickly, and it will not be an immediate disaster for pathogenic bacteria. However, the estimated 33,000 Europeans who die each year from infections caused by resistant bacteria need to be addressed urgently. By 2050, this figure could rise to 10 million victims a year!
It is not immediately wise for us fanciers to pin all our hopes on the assumption that we will be able to develop new antibiotics again in the future.
As described in previous blogs, there is also the problem of antibiotic residues in the ecosystem, especially in the (surface) water of rivers, lakes and oceans. This leads to the emergence of resistant bacteria on a large scale.
The solution for sports veterinary medicine is not the massive use of more new antibiotics in the future, but the much more subtle use of prebiotics and probiotics.
Source: https://www.pileje.be/nl/uw-gezondheidstijdschrift/probiotica-wat-is-de-beste-keuze
Comed also uses non-live para-probiotics in its formulas, i.e. fragments of live probiotics, which are also very useful in natural protection through an optimally functioning immune system.
A recent study showed a marked difference between poultry (chicks) given antibiotics (quinolones = Baytril) and those given probiotics in the first days of life (*).
Chicks treated with enrofloxacin had significantly lower levels of antibody IgY transferred from the mother to the chicks via the egg yolk in their plasma.
(Baytril)-treated chicks, indicating a reduction in the passive or humoral immunity of these chicks (present in the blood and in the fluids between the tissues).
The mother has built up this immunity from contact with pathogens in her environment (which will initially be the same as that of the chick) and then passes it on to the chick via the egg yolk to protect it during the first 2 weeks.
E.g. herpes virus is lethal to young pigeons without this passive immunity from the mother). As soon as the young birds hatch, they will no longer be able to absorb these immunoglobulins through their digestive tract.
Active or cellular immunity, on the other hand, is acquired through the early contact of specific body cells (such as macrophages, derived from white blood cells) with the pathogens, which they can then recognise and respond to when infected.
This study shows many overlapping influences of pro- and antibiotics on the immune system, with the final conclusion that quinolone administration clearly reduces the first immunity acquired through the yolk. These findings suggest that, among other things, a gap in immunity may be involved in the development of young pigeon disease (***).
• It is not advisable to intervene with (blind) antibiotic treatments (especially not as a preventive measure). The fact is that colonising the gut with good bacteria (probiotics) to drive out the bad bacteria is the right strategy.
• On the other hand, quinolones have also been shown to have certain advantages in controlling inflammatory processes - albeit within a controversial strategy - by modulating cellular immunity, thus reducing the use of (other) antibiotics in the poultry industry.
In practical terms, pigeons have to deal with infections on their own and that depends on a perfectly functioning immune system.
We need to support this immune system as efficiently as possible. It is hugely complex but crucial for performance in racing.
Manure good, everything good! Often the problems with the functioning of the immune system have to do with problems in the bowel.
Willem Debruijn's video explains it crystal clear.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9101873/
(*)
There is a slight difference in the immune system between chickens and pigeons, but this is irrelevant to the interpretation of this study.
(***)
OFF TO A GOOD START
The immune system of a pigeon is a collaboration of different organs. These organs produce defence cells (lymphocytes) and antibodies (immunoglobulins). Antibodies are inherited from the mother (passive immunity) at hatching. These defences will gradually weaken as the pigeon begins to develop its own immune system after hatching. Unfortunately, circovirus (C.V.) is harmful to the immune system. During the first 2 months of a young pigeon's life, when passive immunity switches to active immunity, the Fabricius sac is a reservoir of circovirus: this is where B lymphocytes are formed. After antigenic stimulation, the B lymphocytes are transformed into plasma cells, which migrate into the blood. These are responsible for the production of immunoglobulins in the blood (humoral immunity). This subtle process is completely disturbed by the circovirus.
The pigeon risks a weakened immune system at weaning (immunity gap) if there is not a smooth transition from one phase to another. The COMED METHOD ensures a healthy immune system at any time. The COMED METHOD helps the young pigeon to get through this transitional period in a successful way during the weaning period.
The pigeon's immune system can be affected by negative (oxidative) stress (weaning, moving in groups, vaccination, unhygienic environment, transport, etc.). They lead to activation of the circovirus. The COMED METHOD ensures that the immune system of our pigeons is kept in balance. Our Comed products help young pigeons to overcome a temporary weakness in their immune system (resistance to disease).
]]>Two years ago, we wrote about the pollution of the world's major rivers by residues of pharmaceuticals. It was about painkillers such as ibuprofen, which humanity has been swallowing by the ton every day for decades.
The ecosystem is not able to break them down.
However, this is only the tip of the iceberg, as we have entirely overlooked the increase in antibiotic resistance among (pathogenic) bacteria in the oceans. What is more, the low doses at which these antibiotics are dissolved in the sea encourage resistance. In short, the oceans have quietly got sick, and if they are, so are we. In fact, human beings are very much dependent on marine life.
Meanwhile, like the peloton in a race, we are on the same track with the antibiotic problem as we are with the nitrogen problem: "It is by definition too late". It will not be long before the systematic measurements that are now being taken will confront us with the unpalatable truth, and we will have to ration these life-saving drugs heavily because the eco-toxicity is too great.
Admit that Comed has warned about this (long ago)...
🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️
I wrote two blogs ago about Willem Debruijn's fancier Wybren Breeling. He commented on the overwhelming determination with which the pigeons always came home.
Such a drive ensures that all available physical strength is used in the service of speed...
The loft-return trajectories of two groups of homing pigeons were analysed (by researchers from the Universities of Frankfurt and Jerusalem) (*). The aim was to detect differences between individual pigeons and also to see if there were correlations between characteristic variable parameters. On the one hand, the initial phase, when the pigeons were still at the release site, and on the other hand, the final stage of the homeward journey were studied.
In the early stages, there was considerable variation in the flying speed of individual pigeons. Some pigeons also stayed longer at the release point than others. All pigeons returned home equally well, with no significant constancy or efficiency differences.
Differences in the use of navigational information, with some pigeons apparently using less complex information than others, are reflected in differences in the correlation dimension (a variable related to the complexity of the navigational process). (For comparison, one would do this with a simple compass and the other with GPS technology).
The speed of flight during the initial phase was in direct proportion to the speed of flight during the return phase.
During the return phase, the flight's stability (constant speed) was directly proportional to the return flight's efficiency (certainty of returning).
In other words, a more stable flight is, to some extent, also a guarantee of a particular return home. Both factors (stability and efficiency) were directly proportional to the correlation dimension (using more complex navigational information).
Conclusion
Indeed, the study concluded that each pigeon has its skill level and that those with more complex navigating techniques are better home fliers.
🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️
It is worth linking the above data to another fascinating study …👇
A new study from the Department of Zoology at the University of Oxford shows that, like humans, homing pigeons can build on the knowledge of others and improve their navigational efficiency over time.
This capacity for collecting, transmitting and improving knowledge over generations is known as cumulative culture.
Until now, the only species thought to be able to do this were humans and probably some other primates (ape-like animals).
Remarkably, Noël De Scheemaeker wrote in “Pigeon Laughs" before the 2nd World War: "You must buy pigeons from your land".
In this study, paired individuals were removed and replaced as they learned to navigate a particular route. Ten groups of pigeons were released from the same site. Generational succession was simulated by constantly replacing pigeons familiar with the road with inexperienced pigeons that had never flown it. The idea was to test whether these individuals could pass on their route experience to the next generation and also to allow the collective intelligence of the group to improve route efficiency continuously.
The results, published in Nature Communications, suggest: Over time, the student does indeed become the teacher. There was a consistent improvement in the couples' return performance over generations - they also streamlined their route to be more direct.
Groups from later generations performed better than individuals flying alone or in groups without the opportunity to share their experiences. Return routes were also more similar in successive generations of the same chain of pigeon pairs than in crossing chains. This suggests a knowledge transfer between generations or a 'culture' of return routes.
Scientists used to think that only humans had the cognitive (intellectual) capacity to acquire knowledge as a society. Our study shows that pigeons share this capacity with humans, at least because they can gradually improve a behavioural solution over time. However, we claim they achieve this through different processes.
Pigeons share our human ability to build knowledge across generations.
Of course, everyone knows the benefits of training young pigeons with more experienced ones. In the experiment, the behaviour of 2 pigeons was paired together each time. Studying the effects of experience transfer on paired groups becomes even more fascinating.
Appointing a leader during the return is essential, as a previous blog describes. If the pigeons are good followers and choose a good leader (navigator), they can achieve great results even though each pigeon has its navigational talent and approach.
This experiment goes further. As people share and pass on knowledge from generation to generation, our culture becomes more complex over time. Industrial manufacturing and engineering, which build on the ability of ancestors (predecessors), are good examples.
In contrast, when the process occurs between homing pigeons, the result is an increase in efficiency (in this case, navigation) but not necessarily an increase in the complexity of behaviour..
Nuance
The researchers added: 'Although they have different processes, our findings show that pigeons can acquire knowledge and gradually improve their performance, which aligns with the cumulative culture criteria. These results also suggest that this cumulative culture does not require advanced cognitive (far-reaching) skills, as was previously thought to be the case.
Conclusion
This study of animal behaviour shows that collective intelligence, which is usually focused on single performances, can result from accumulated knowledge over time. An important novelty is that the gradual improvement is not due to new 'ideas' about improving the path introduced by individual pigeons. Instead, the necessary innovations in each generation come from collective intelligence from two pigeons solving the problem together; in other words, "two heads are better (know more) than one".
As we advance, the researchers plan to build on this study by investigating whether a similar style of sharing and accumulating knowledge over multiple generations occurs in other species' social groups. Many animal groups have to solve the same problems repeatedly in the natural world. Using feedback from previous outcomes of these tasks or events could influence and improve the decisions the groups make in the future.
🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️
It is crucial for the colony's survival that the swarm gets home efficiently.
Complex navigation is more efficient and could stem from a certain 'sanity' built up due to passing information between generations.
A pigeon is, therefore, not so much an individual as part of a social whole. To this end, it is endowed with the ability to adapt through mutual "intelligent" exchanges and the accumulation of information. Therefore, a colony of pigeons is more and more experienced, especially concerning the return flight.
These findings should give us pause for thought about the magical qualities of our precious homing pigeon. We are privileged to partner with science in unveiling its mysterious talents.
Sources:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30260962/
https://phys.org/news/2017-04-homing-pigeons-human-ability-knowledge.html
]]>The Portuguese Federation is organizing the International Championship of Racing Pigeons - MIRA 2023, as it has been doing for twenty-five years. The event brings together breeders and is a place for meeting and success.
Prize money
A total of €120,000 in prize money will be awarded. The final flight will take place on Sept. 23, 2023, and pigeons can be entered between April 1 and May 31, 2023.
Registration & regulations
The entry form and rules for the FCI Grand Prix MIRA 2023 are attached at the bottom of the page. Here you have the opportunity to download and fill them out.
If you need assistance in sending pigeons, please contact the Portuguese Federation or our international agents/friends (refer to the attached file).
Several dates are available for transporting pigeons:
01-04-2023
29-04-2023
20-05-2023
More additional information will be available soon at www.fpcolumbofilia.pt/Mira2023/ or on the Facebook page
A good friend, lawyer Stijn Verbist and columnist for the daily 'de Tijd', was a professor at the University of Hasselt in the subject 'Legal protection of citizens against the government'. It sounds a bit strange, but it is also worrying for democracy. Too many leaders are constantly pointing the finger at the citizens and moralising about them, denouncing uncivil behaviour in the name of patriotism, while they themselves are sitting on a dung heap.
Indeed, the recently leaked self-congratulatory benefits of our top government and trade union leaders have left a bitter taste in the mouths of those asked to make an effort. They would do better to deal with the real problems of the people, such as the role of the banks, which are still socially worthless and run roughshod over society.
On this subject, an exciting article 👇
Article Trends
At the top, you will find the eagle … and the vermin …
An interesting test (*) described the influence of various stress parameters in racing pigeons, such as the presence of diseases and environmental conditions during flights. A total of 96 racing pigeons from 4 colonies were examined, and health monitoring was performed. No worm eggs or coccidia were detected. Paramyxoviruses and avian influenza viruses were not detected. Chlamydia psittaci (ornithosis) was detected in one group. A subclinical form of Trichomonas sp. was confirmed. All groups had evidence of circovirus infection.
Trichomoniasis simply survives in our pigeons' environment, as do the Circo and herpes viruses that have become endemic. These germs are still present, and our pigeons must learn to live with them by ensuring they remain dormant and do not flare up again (good resistance, e.g. through stress control).
Before and 25 days after vaccination, blood samples were taken, and HI antibody titres (response to paramyxoviruses) were measured. In order to improve the playing conditions and the welfare of the pigeons, critical points regarding stress factors during the active training season have been studied.
Corticosterone levels were measured in the blood serum of four different categories of pigeons. Corticosterone levels were almost twice as high in pigeons from the active category throughout the racing season, including medium and long-distance races, compared to the other three non-active categories. In fact, distances up to 180 km were found to have little effect. Within five hours of a race, the average serum corticosterone level was 59.4 nmol/L in the most physically active category (fond). The average level of corticosterone in the serum of this category was still at 37.5 nmol/L one month after the last race.
This higher level of corticosterone in the blood stimulates the production of cholesterol and lipids such as triglycerides and phospholipids, all of which are potent sources of energy. Corticosterone could also provide a euphoric factor (good mood) (in humans): preparation for the future, preparation of the feathers, and analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
These characteristics explain the use of corticosteroids as a doping agent, since the cessation of moulting alone cannot explain the remarkable improvements in performance.
Corticosterone also promotes the production of red blood cells (erythropoiesis), which are responsible for oxygen transport to the muscles.
(They are smaller than mammals, partly to pass through blood vessels faster).
We can clearly see that increased exertion (due to stress and adrenaline) leads to higher corticosteroid levels. This, in turn, improves performance by producing energy carriers.
Cortisol compensates for energy loss. (In nature, this is caused by the release of adrenaline during fight or flight.) The body uses this energy to regain its balance. Cortisol is helpful, even though it has a bad reputation as a stress hormone. In fact, the body will quickly use up all its energy reserves and eventually collapse if the adrenaline system remains active. Cortisol is produced in the adrenal cortex. The adrenal cortex plays a role in the immune system, the sleep-wake cycle and the digestion of food.
However, too much stress can be harmful, including suppressing the immune system and possibly reducing fertility.
Jean-Louis, Willem and caretaker Wybren at the Houten Fair 2023
Performance in itself seems to lead to fitness. However, a well-designed programme remains an essential factor for success. The pigeons must be selected both physically and mentally. As Willem de Bruijn used to say: "Make sure you have a working strain and a healthy immune system at the same time.
👇video YouTube Willem
No matter how you turn it, you will automatically end up with the Comed method ...
Source
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34573652/
- Health Status and Stress in Different Categories of Racing Pigeons
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8880243/
- Doping in Racing Pigeons (Columba livia domestica): A Review and Actual Situation in Belgium, a Leading Country in This Field
US President Ronald Reagan once said:"One of the most beautiful moments a person can experience is coming home and knowing that someone is waiting behind the door who is very happy to see you".
During a film shoot at Willem's, I spoke to his caretaker, Wybren Vreeling. His testimony about the level of discipline, or rather the unseen ferocity and determination with which the pigeons came home, has stayed with me ever since. Above all and for all, they wanted to be 'home'. Apart from physical ability, there must also be a desire.
"Homing pigeon" literally means: "a pigeon that flies home". Between man and animal, and between man and pigeon, there is an undeniable affective bond.
The longing for that shelf, that bowl, in that familiar loft, under that tight roof, that sacred "territory" around which the biological world revolves.
On this issue, a study was conducted.👉🏻
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7758459/
In this complex analysis, the pigeon's proximity to the fancier was one of the most vital factors. Future studies should pay more attention to observing how pigeons behave to gain more knowledge.
Searching for the best approach, Willem concludes that the first meeting with Comed (*) felt like a warm bed. You can't put it more clearly and honestly.
How pleasant is it when combining scientific analysis and interpersonal trust is the key to success?
Watch and listen to its compelling story 👇
(* now 15 years ago with Michel Vanlint)
… Welcome to Reewijk, where I have been pigeon racing at a very high level since 1983. In my youth - I come from Gouda and am an inner-city kid - pigeons were a boy's thing. Even then, I felt I could do more with pigeons than my friends. I was regional champion in two years and provincial champion in three. But I was very driven.
I was obsessed with showing everyone how good I was. I did everything maniacally. I had a young family, but I still managed. Get up at 5.30 in the morning and take the youngsters to train. Hurry home, do the pigeons, pick up the youngsters from training. And then off to work. I never missed a day looking after pigeons in my forty years as a dentist. It made me seek out good fanciers, still do.
I was always trying to be better but never satisfied. If I could do something to improve, I would do it. The result was that the pigeons were driven almost every day—70 km to the border and excessive use of medication. Of course, I had some medical knowledge from my training. The results were enormous. But because of my madness then, I forgot to enjoy everything. I remember very little of my achievements because I was so fanatical.
I could only think about the following weekend's performance when a race was over. At some point, you think: ‘Am I doing well?’ Nowadays, I think you have to have a working pigeon. It has to perform and be vital. Such a pigeon must cope with an infection in the basket and get it under control within a few days.
I now rely on the natural qualities and resistance of the pigeon. This has helped me. I also rely on someone who is an expert. Like Jean-Louis Jorissen from COMED. Since talking to COMED, I have found what I have been looking for for years.
When I saw the COMED products, and especially after talking to Jean-Louis, I found out: that's it, EVERYTHING, A TYPE OF WARM BED of 'that's what I want'. I no longer want to worry about whether I am doing enough. The performance will drop if I don't give this medicine. The quality of the pigeon is my priority. Not the medication or a lot of travelling with the pigeons. As the years go by, I leave more and more things out. But that can only be done with products that support the pigeon.
For example. When you wean young pigeons at four weeks, they look great. Around the sixth week, they always fall back. Darkened youngsters, 'winter youngsters', start to moult. This lasts ten days to two weeks, and then the moulting stops. Then they get an infection. Often it is intestinal. When I give the product RONI, the intestinal environment becomes more acidic. Then you have less harmful bacteria. Some people think they can do it with vinegar. But that neutralises in the stomach and doesn't get into the intestines. You need a product that goes through the stomach into the intestine, creating a more acidic environment. When I wean the youngsters, I vaccinate them first with Paramixo and Rota. Then I give them RONI every day for two months. The intestinal function is then always calm and reasonable. The winter and dark youngsters moulting is always done in one go. They then have the full suit of old pigeon feathers after only three months of age.
There are by-products as well. During the season, I feed STOPMITE for several days in a row. The pigeons will then be less likely to suffer from parasites and lice.The droppings are good, and it benefits the airways. You can see from the pigeons that they respond well to it. All these products are supportive. They are not medicines. If they are sick and you give it to them, they get better, no. You ensure they get the most out of it by providing that support. I keep pigeon racing as simple as possible. Daily routine. A little of this, a little of that... make it a standard feed. If you have a problem with lice, you can sprinkle only STOPMITE on the feed for two weeks. Do it with LISOCUR+
Or CUROL, which has a bit more fat. I prefer to use it as a support during the other flights when more fat is needed. Pigeon racing is not that complicated at all. And yet it's not simple. Humans make it complicated. Try to have a suitable loft with exceptional pigeons. And try to treat them properly by doing the same thing over and over again. They respond well to that. Don't do something different every day. If you have good pigeons, ensure you have an excellent loft where they don't get sick. Not too crowded, fresh air or fewer birds. And to compensate for any deficiencies, provide a proper supplement as a base. Form and performance should follow...
……….70 unaffected boys auctioned off for 1 million...staggering ...
William's unparalleled and awarded sporting success is mainly due to the transparency of his approach and the simplicity with which he embraces it as a human being.
That Comed felt like a "warm bed" to William is something we humbly consider to be a great honour ...
]]>The auction was an unprecedented success. The total paid for 75 (unfledged) young pigeons was no less than €958,100. Or an average of €12,775 per pigeon.
Never before has an auction of a single lot of unfledged pigeons raised so much money.
For some time now, the labour market has been under severe pressure.
For every 100 people leaving, only 85 people are entering. Only 80% of those entering the labour market want to work. The labour shortage remains structural. Unfortunately, only an announced economic contraction can relieve the pressure in the near future.
There are no vacancies for pharmacists either. We are looking in vain for another colleague to join us for a whole career. Our duties are becoming more extensive and, for example, we recently had to deal with corona vaccinations and, later this year, combined influenza vaccinations. The government wants to increase the crucial vaccination rate by lowering the threshold.
Influenza in humans, is still a serious disease, causing significant economic damage each year and one million deaths worldwide. At the end of last year, two months earlier than usual, the flu virus became active. This is being watched with suspicion as the season’s peak is still to come.
Traditionally, the influenza virus is monitored in Southeast Asia (northern hemisphere) to find out which variants (AB and HN strains) are circulating there. This helps us to have the appropriate vaccines available in the autumn. Predicting is always good but never perfect. This is why the effectiveness of the flu vaccine is a little lower (+/- 60%) than that of the Corona vaccine (+/- 90%). However, there has been an increase in effectiveness against influenza due to recent vaccines with 4 different strains. Their effectiveness is, therefore more than sufficient for epidemic control if vaccination coverage is high enough (80% or more).
So the global recommendation is increasingly explicit and generic:
"Get vaccinated" is also for those who do not belong to a risk group (a healthy middle-aged person has a one in three chance of developing complications due to a risk factor such as smoking or drinking alcohol). This is why pharmacists are involved. They can help keep the threshold low and thus increase vaccination rates.
The reservoir of this influenza virus is waterfowl, to which it is highly contagious and dangerous. It then spreads to all birds, for which it can also be highly contagious and fatal.
Reassortment = the exchange of genetic material from one species to another.
Sometimes the virus is transmitted to pigs, which (depending on the variant) may or may not easily infect each other. Exceptionally, it can be transmitted from pigs to humans and, depending on the variant, from human to human…
There are several components to this influenza virus.
Influenza A has two key features on its surface: Haemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N) provide the adhesion to the cell, which allows the virus to enter the cell.
If we can block this with antibodies , it is harder for the virus to attach. The neutralised virus in the blood can be eaten by special cells (phagocytosis).
Sixteen H traits and nine N traits provide all possible combinations with their familiar names (H 1 N1 or H3 N1...).
Due to constant mutation (viruses have been doing the same thing for 200 million years), there exist:
A "perfect viral storm" could be on the horizon if influenza and corona both surprise us with mutations to which we have no immunity(*).
The flu virus undergoes such a shift about four times every century.
In 1918 Spanish flu (H1N1): caused more casualties than WWI.
In 1957 Asian flu (H2N2).
In 1968 HongKong flu (H3N2).
The daily “De Tijd” wrote last week: "Avian flu is hitting harder than ever”.
Source: https://www.tijd.be/ondernemen/voeding-drank/vogelgriep-grijpt-harder-om-zich-heen-dan-ooit/10436028
Fortunately, our pigeons are not at high risk in this chain of infection. (**)
They can be infected with the avian influenza virus but do not usually become ill (**).
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26443061/
Source: https://www.kbdb.be/vogelgriep/
Our National Pigeon Fanciers' Association is closely monitoring the situation where the measures have only caught the pigeons in the restricted zones (blast zone, e.g. 3 to 10 km around a hotspot).
Otherwise, no measures apply outside the restricted areas.
We may yet
• participate in competitions;
• transport your pigeons;
• release your pigeons outside the loft.
👉🏻 Racing pigeons are hardened due to the rigour selection of the sport, where only those with robust immune systems survive, despite the use of antibiotics, which tend to weaken them.
This touches on the basis of the Comed method and is all the more reason to focus on antibiotic-free care, which only increases their resistance to bird flu and similar diseases. Our desire is to continue our sport in spite of all the virus circulations and, of course, to perform more purely with pigeons as sharp as possible.
(*)
There were fears of an H1N1 pandemic in the United States in 2009. There were fears of a global tsunami with major socio-economic consequences.
The virus was a unique combination of influenza A virus genes never before identified in animals or humans. This combination of viruses and genes was closely related to the North American H1N1 pig lineage and to the H1N1 influenza viruses of the Eurasian pig strain. For this reason, initial reports suggested that it was a swine flu virus. However, no exposure to pigs was found when the first human cases were investigated. It soon became clear that this new virus was circulating in humans and not in the pig herds of the USA. Worldwide, the death toll is estimated at between 150,000 and 600,000.
(**)
We experimentally infected three different pigeon species (meat, city and race) with two different doses of H7N9 avian influenza virus A/Chicken/China/2013 by intranasal and intraocular inoculation (IN + IO) or intravenous injection (IV) to determine the susceptibility of pigeons to the newly emerged avian influenza virus subtype H7N9. In addition, the potential for transmission of H7N9 to pigeons by direct close contact with experimentally infected pigeons and chickens was evaluated. The results showed that none of the experimentally infected pigeons showed clinical signs, irrespective of the route and dose of infection. Of the 12 racing pigeons that were randomly selected and had necropsy, none of them had coarse lesions. Consistent with this finding, the virus was not isolated from all pigeons. No detectable levels of H7-specific antibodies were found in any of the pigeons. In contrast, conjunctivitis was present in 11 out of 31 chickens infected with H7N9 by inoculation with IN + IO or by contact with chickens infected with IN + IO. The virus was isolated from all of the 31 chickens, and antibodies specific to H7 were detected in these chickens. However, no clinical signs were observed in any of the IV-infected chickens or chickens in direct contact with IV-infected chickens. There has been no isolation of virus from these chickens and no detection of H7-specific antibodies. Overall, our conclusion is that at the doses used, pigeons have little or no susceptibility to the H7N9 virus and are unlikely to be a reservoir for the virus.
However, the virus is a cause of conjunctivitis in chickens and can be transmitted to susceptible hosts by direct contact.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26443061/
It won't be another 500 years before man will probably no longer have a reason to exist because of no longer needed for human reproduction. Women have long been able to give birth to full-fledged offspring from an artificially fertilised egg. Fertilisation of the egg cell can also be done with a woman's genetic material (skin cell), making the man redundant.
]]>While genetic engineering is fully developing and promising, one should be patient instead of immediately seeing a business model.
It won't be another 500 years before man will probably no longer have a reason to exist because of no longer needed for human reproduction. Women have long been able to give birth to full-fledged offspring from an artificially fertilised egg. Fertilisation of the egg cell can also be done with a woman's genetic material (skin cell), making the man redundant.
Human embryo cloning has succeeded before, in 2013 at Oregon Health and Science University and again in 2018 in monkeys. 👇
One and the other could cause much change. The amount of testosterone, the most dangerous substance on earth, would decrease significantly. On average, this substance causes much trouble for men, especially between 18 and 40.
E.g. there would be far fewer autocratic regimes, often driven by male lordship and rooster behaviour. There would be 12 times fewer crimes and prisons. In many communities, women have an unenviable status (hard work without a say), and they are gradually getting tired of it. Rightfully so!
Women deserve respect for their universal biological maternal qualities, crowned with empathy and caring for the weak and vulnerable. Biologically and genetically, they also happen to be the stronger sex! A recent book casts a scathing light on “the man, being the strong sex”.👉🏻 https://www.langzullenwelezen.be/nieuws/vrouwen-zijn-sterker-dan-mannen-dokter-els-dufraimont-over-het-sterke-geslacht
'... women are lucky enough to possess 2 X chromosomes. And that is what the book is mainly about. The man's Y chromosome is very tiny, making him different from the woman's. The Y chromosome uses about 70 genes and has to do with producing sperm. In the female X chromosome, there are 1,000 genes essential for egg production, brain development, and immunity. When one X chromosome malfunctions, women can use the other. And men can't. So in men, for example, you are more likely to get mental illness.👇👇
Similarly, the hens have much more to offer physically than the cocks.
They do not waste energy in the basket arguing with their travelling companions. But mainly because of their genetic advantage, they can physically and mentally do much more, such as participate in heavy races every week, cocks cannot.
Genetic engineering is thus making significant improvements. In the meantime, by analogy with genetically modified plants, one can eliminate a bad gene in mammals (humans) because of certain diseases and replace it with a healthy one.
https://www.deingenieur.nl/artikel/claim-eerste-baby-s-geboren-die-met-crispr-zijn-behandeld.
Similarly, in pigeon racing, people have been active. They have been conducting genetic research for years into the heritability of essential, specific characteristics of the racing pigeon, which we would like to address briefly.
Pigeons are continuously selected based on speed, spatial orientation and endurance during (long) flights. However, numerous genetic and non-genetic factors affect survival and return ability, making such traits challenging to control for the fancier.
A recent 2018 study addressed the issue of the influence of the LDHA gene on a racing pigeon's survivability during racing competitions.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5959059/
We explain what it is about as simply and concisely as possible.
A few terms:
Variations in the LDHA gene (Lactate Dehydrogenase A gene) are likely to influence sport performance and return ability to race pigeons due to its role in physical and mental performance processes.
This study investigated whether there was a link between the gene LDHA and pigeon survival during races. The survivability was evaluated through the estimated breeding value = EBV or "Evaluated Breed Value". (*) over the total racing distances of each pigeon during its athletic life.
This estimated breeding value EBV is the likelihood of offspring inheriting the genetic traits. An animal's breeding value is its genetic contribution to each trait. This cannot be determined precisely - but only estimated.
These estimates of an animal's actual breeding value are called EBVs (Estimated Breeding Values).
The test distances in the study were 500, 1,000, 2,000, 3,000 and 4,000 km to recognise a possible genetic variation tied to the travelled distance (a distance phenotype).
More extended distance performance can promote better return and survival skills. The study involved 867 Japanese racing pigeons born between 1989 and 2012 and registered with the Japan Pigeon Federation.
Their pedigrees were checked over five generations, totalling 2,037 pedigrees. Subsequently, the breeding value was estimated for the pedigree based on the targeted genotypes. The rarely occurring genotypes were grouped to finally arrive at only two types, namely S+ and S-.
The hereditary expectation, which according to the Japanese federation ranking was 0.25 (25% chance of inheriting the Palmares), was also included in the calculation models in analogy with the genetic profiles of winners and non-winners in equestrian sports. Sexes, specific characteristics, species, populations, and general external appearance were compared.
In this study, the pigeon population descended from a 'confined' group raised by the Japanese army. Therefore, population stratification (= division of a research population into one or more subcategories according to, e.g. age, sex, social status, ...) was not in place.
Pigeons with the "S+" variation (allele) of the LDHA gene had a higher EBV value correlated with a longer total race distance.
I.e. they have higher survival rates (a property they can also pass on to offspring).
The specific "S+" spot on the LDHA gene may thus be helpful for gene-marker-assisted selection, allowing fanciers to maximise the quality of pigeons.
In addition, data obtained from breeding may also improve our understanding of the genetic mechanism that underlies navigation and flight ability in wild migratory bird species.
This research study investigated the relationship between the survival of racing pigeons and multiformity (polymorphism) in the already well-studied LDHA gene. Individuals with the "S+" genotype showed higher EBV of three (longest) race distance-related traits.
The lack of significant relationships between LDHA genotypes and shorter race distances may be because pigeon survival rates matter less at 500-1,000 km (most races and existing competition). The results confirm a significant relationship between LDHA polymorphisms and pigeon-return abilities.
These data are consistent with existing knowledge of LDHA function.
LDHA affects overall physical and mental performance: similar to human physiology.
For the more advanced:
shorturl.at/dKRZ0
This link illustrates the sugar metabolism of astrocytes.
In these brain cells [type glial cells in the hippocampus (*)], LDHA is converted to lactate, which is released to nearby neurons as a fuel source.
(*) The hippocampus plays a role in spatial navigation and long-term memory formation.
The astrocyte-neuron lactate shuttle hypothesis. The activation of nerve cells leads to the release of the neurotransmitter glutamate. Glutamate is actively taken up in astrocytes by glutamate transporters (GLT-1) and is converted into glutamine. Glutamate incorporation into astrocytes stimulates glucose uptake from surrounding capillaries via glucose transporters (GLUT1) and increases aerobic glycolysis. The degradation of intracellular glycogen stocks can also stimulate aerobic glycolysis. Pyruvate is converted to lactate by lactate dehydrogenase isoenzyme A (LDHA) and is exported from the cell by the monocarboxylate transporter 1 or 4 (MCT1/4) and transported to nerve cells via MCT2. LDHB in nerve cells coats lactate to pyruvate, which fuels oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondria. Glucose can also enter nerve cells via GLUT3 transporters.
Besides the S+ allele, there is also the M allele, which was found twice as much in Japanese racing pigeons (0.712) than in wild rock pigeons (0.334). This trend is due to the long history of artificial selection for high-speed and rapid returns from racing flights.
In the present study, the occurrence of the M allele was also higher than that of the S allele, but the presence of the latter showed a higher survival rate (i.e. higher EBV).
This result is probably due to the chosen studied property: Do we want to select speed or survivability? In particular, in the athletic life of a pigeon, accumulated total race distance implies the safe completion of many races, a factor that depends mainly on survivability.
High survivability indicates excellent navigational ability, increased endurance and improved resistance to environmental hazards (e.g. wild predators and bad weather), but not necessarily high speed.
Wild rock doves are more likely to survive (suggesting higher S-frequency) than racing pigeons, given the intense natural selective pressure on the former for traits such as foraging, seeking shelter and predator defence.
However, intensive and extensive artificial selection for high speed in racing pigeons has increased the M allele frequency at the expense of the S allele.
One can advance some hypotheses at this early research stage about how LDHA genetically affects the EBVs of accumulated total race distances.
Other essential genes that can affect pigeon performance are:
- The serotonin transporter (5-HTT) gene 👉🏻 personality, and
- The mitochondrial ATP6 gene 👉🏻 energy generation and physical fitness.
These properties are also crucial for survival.
These 5-HTT and ATP6 were examined among Japanese racing pigeons, but no polymorphism (necessary to select genetically) could be found within these two genes.
Indeed, to confirm the relationship between genetic variation and complex traits such as survivability, more candidate genes and pigeon populations are needed. However, studies of this kind will increase our knowledge regarding the genetic underpinnings of survivability and navigability in wild migratory bird species.
There are reservations in academia regarding this particular study:
Although genetic engineering is fully developing and promising, one should be patient instead of immediately seeing a business model.
Moreover, the causal link between performance and genes must be bi-directional: If it was established that pigeons that do not underperform or die usually have a particular gene, it must also be shown in the other direction that a pigeon that has that gene also performs well.
This still needs to be contradicted.The research is highly complex due to the numerous interactions between the many variables. It will take a long time before people will be in a position to select efficiently based on gene markers.
Moving to the next step in this discipline of actually breeding super breeds via genetic modification (or manipulation) will come with ethical obstacles (eugenics during the war) and is still a distant dream ...
Meanwhile, we put up with the talents and intuition of many a top fancier in pigeon racing who manages to breed champions year after year through perseverance and insight. Comed feels a privileged partner to support branded breeding with, among other things, Miobol, which advances weaning by a week!
At this stage, with Miobol, it is best to unlock the full potential of our current pigeon stock's genotype before selecting or improving genes.
]]>Current geopolitical tensions are about important issues as far as the "West" is concerned, including the hard-won "Enlightenment". The "East" did not live through it. We mean the period when individual freedoms were enforced by the establishment, which -if we are honest- has held us up for more than 1,000 years...
"The earth was flat, full stop."
"The planets and the sun revolve around the earth, full stop."
"Man was created according to an intelligent concept, full stop."
You weren't allowed to question that!
The urge for individual freedom arising from consciousness made it through, and democracy was born.
Heroic explorers advocated free research and the expression of free opinion, often at the risk of their lives.
• Then Einstein came up with the theory of relativity and spacetime e= mc2.
Source: https://www.eoswetenschap.eu/natuurwetenschappen/wat-ruimtetijd
In the Pantheon of Paris, one can learn about the works of famous French illuminated thinkers. Above the entrance is a large caption: "For great men, the grateful fatherland".
Source: https://wikikids.nl/Verlichting
They advocated free, critical and systematic research. As a result, human ingenuity led to unprecedented Western flourishing as a result of the insights of these scientists.
A published scientific study is described so thoroughly that anyone can repeat it and check it...
Henceforth, this "contradictory" character is essential in searching for truth. Indeed, thanks to such a study on the influence of social parameters between homing pigeons when returning to the loft, we now have objective decisions at our disposal: what is true and what is fiction...
This study investigated the influence of social parameters, such as sex, mating status or breeding status, when travelling a familiar route in homing pigeons.
After training the pigeons from a release point about 10 km from their loft, they were discharged in different duo and group formations to assess the aforementioned social parameters. Due to repeated releases and the distance between the release point and the loft was not too great, the pigeons became increasingly familiar with this route. They very likely knew the most efficient way quickly (thus acquiring a better efficiency index).
Initial solo flights showed an increase in efficiency for the first few days and then stagnation. It is assumed that training or learning would have had no further impact on subsequent flights and that differences in efficiency were due to differences in motivation. Group size can also improve efficiency, but generally, it is challenging to distinguish between the ability to fly home and the motivation to take advantage of it. Still, it looks likely that stimulation boosts the efficiency index of a known route.
Usually, pigeons reach a high level of route efficiency after about eight to ten flights. The learning process showed that pigeons then took the most efficient route home, which means an increasing approach to the straight line. Generally, the average efficiency index of solo flights varied between 0.66 and 0.91 (1 = straight line), most often around 0.83. Theoretically, a particular rise in efficiency appeared with increasing distance.
The shortness of the distance (10 km in a straight line, as shown in the study, is, in fact, short) could pose no real challenge to the pigeons, so they may not have felt the need for further improvement. The span between efficiencies in this study indicates that the type of social relationships with flight companions can influence the efficiency index over a (relatively short) known route. Only a handful of studies have directly addressed the possible influences of pigeon motivation on return performance. Nowadays, the way flown can easily be tracked. (https://www.refly.nl/).
After years of evaluation and communication with fanciers, Tempo 60 visibly boosts motivation and appetite for flying. The exact influence on return performance (how quickly) still needs to be measured.
Interestingly, unpaired hens showed a better efficiency index in solo flights (one bird) and duo flights (two unpaired birds) than the paired hens or cocks. Celibacy is a motivating factor for a return performance, even a pretty strong one.
The higher efficiency index (finding the shortest path) of group flights of unpaired pigeons is consistent with previous findings showing that group flights generally offer better return performance (fastest return) than solo flights, even when the solo performance of individual pigeons was worse.
Several research groups have described and explained this phenomenon with the "many-wrongs" principle and other models of group navigation that propose the elimination of individual navigation errors (see the previous blog). On the contrary, the circling time increases with group size due to the appointment of a leader. This was not observed in the duo and group flights. One should distinguish between the initial circling and the final route chosen, representing the efficiency index. The Group flight efficiency index of paired pigeons was higher than solo or duo flights. Thus, group size affects efficiency depending on motivational products. The velocity values showed similar trends, but their interpretation is more complicated because estimating the influence of physical fitness in deviations is difficult.
It is presumed that solo-released pigeons show a longer circling time at the release point because they look for other pigeons, while duos and a small number of pairs usually leave the release point much faster. As such, duo or group flights are expected to exhibit a higher efficiency index than solo flights due to socially motivated behaviour at the unloading point. This is in line with our findings for the unpaired hens but not for the paired pigeons. Interestingly, the motivation to fly home via the most direct route is lowest when coupled pairs fly together. Flying with a partner reduces the motivation to go home, thus the efficiency index, because staying with the partner is the motivating factor and acts as a reward.
This matches the usual strategies of pigeon fanciers who know that the paired partner combined with the nest (breeding place) leads to very high motivation in pigeons and can be used to improve return performance. In this, of course, one pigeon of the pair takes part in a race while the other waits in the loft (widowhood). It would be interesting to test whether the phenomenon of poorer performance in (coupled) pair flights disappears when flying long distances or in flights from unknown release sites, as this kind of flight would be more challenging for their navigational ability (non-navigational parameters more redundant). As mentioned above, the efficiency index increased significantly in group flights where three coupled pairs were discharged together.
There is always a tendency to travel in groups (even when flying a known route), and it has been shown that the nature of social relationships within the group can influence route choice. In our study, good return performance in all groups indicates that group flights are generally more efficient and are not strongly influenced by sex, mating or breeding.
Recent publications showed that breeding or hatching status is a motivating factor. Still, these differences are significant only in hens, which suggests that they attach more importance to hatching, perhaps because of their more substantial investment (they lay the eggs and have longer incubations). Return performance was also demonstrated to show an apparent annual periodicity (in pigeons released at unknown locations). Still, no correlation was found between the breeding cycle and return performance, perhaps because pigeons breed year-round if, e.g. food availability is guaranteed.
The results show a correlation between breeding status and efficiency index. An existing clutch or an upcoming eclipse increases the motivation to return home, at least in hens and, at any rate, a short distance from a known release point. It was found that the breeding cycle affects return (speed). In this study, pigeons showed an increase in return speed during breeding time with a peak at the creep-out time and in the first days when the youngsters are present due to psychological aspects (motivation) and hormonal changes. There were indeed the releases at 8 am and 2 pm, just before the expected hatching time. The pair and group flights were conducted a few days earlier and, thus, not during peak time. It was also shown that when returning at night (dusk), breeding pigeons and pigeons with a high degree of oestrus activity appeared much more motivated to produce than other pigeons.
The difficulty of reproducibility (contradictory) of the results makes the return power generally tricky to analyse. Periodic fluctuations have been found across hours, days and years.
Of course, there is also a heavy reliance on
a) the current weather and
b) the discharge site, or the terrain between the discharge site and home, with its characteristic landmarks, geomagnetic field, etc.?
Nevertheless, analysing return trajectories and the home search process can provide exciting insights. This study provides insight into a particular case (known route, short distance, non-stop flights) for which the efficiency index positively correlates with return speed.
Our limited knowledge of motivation to fly home was obtained with ordinary untreated pigeons. This problem becomes relevant for studies using pigeons that have been experimentally manipulated in some way. If their performance is reduced, it is necessary to ask whether the experimental manipulation reduced their ability to return home.
So Comed has a lot of (exciting) work to do ahead! However, we can already state that Tempo 60 has a noticeable motivational effect. We should also point out that with the motivational effect of Tempo 60, a more dominant character must also be considered.
Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5112789/
]]>Ensuring the birds are housed cleanly and well cared for throughout the year is essential. They also must come through the moult properly and be in good condition. For colour canaries (lipochrome), white/red/yellow: wash well with a shampoo (white: special shampoo). Check legs and nails (Transcutine), no damaged or broken feathers and cage the birds. Comed's exhibition schedule starts four weeks in advance.
The most considerable attention is needed in the period before - but also after - the exhibition.
In addition to this competitive outdoor event, the biological mission runs under the form of breeding (driven by the primal instinct of securing offspring) in the peace and regularity of familiar surroundings.
During the exhibition, the bird is immersed in the hustle and bustle of a unique environment.
The exhibition interrupted the care, feeding and supplements (whether through food or drinking water) to which he is accustomed. At the same time, his territorial urge is put to the test by the presence of often thousands of birds, who whistle that there is no question of challenging this.
The bird's resources decline accordingly, putting it in a new equilibrium where we can do something about it:
1. Providing extra fats:
It is a bird's preferred resource, which we need to replenish and maintain.
These fat droplets are converted into muscle power for flight by the oxygen stored in the muscles.
There is an option to intervene in this via nutrition. Fats (lipids) are energy-rich and have a slow metabolism. It takes days or weeks before these reserves are created and stacked (UV), and then another similar time for them to be used up in captivity.
It was so continuing to replenish before the show creates an excellent bridging period for the bird for several days when it goes out of there. Curol, Miobol and Exibi are the appropriate supplements for this purpose.
2. Neutralising free radicals generated by oxidative stress.
Free radicals are unstable and reactive fragments of (semi-)degraded food, which linger around in the organism before becoming part of new building blocks.Hun aanwezigheid neemt toe door (oxidatieve) stress.
These radicals disrupt cellular metabolism causing "problems" at all levels, causing imperfections in organism development and function.
Winmix, Miobol and Stopmite can play an essential role in this regard.
After the exhibition, a period of recovery is necessary. The organism must have the opportunity to clean up free radicals and dead cells, restore fat reserves and rid itself of any germs and parasites acquired through contact.
Providing these exhibition supplements allows potential long-term damage to be controlled.
In animal groups where specific individuals disproportionately influence collective decisions, the whole group’s performance may suffer if these individuals have incorrect information. Whether leaders in such situations can be replaced in their roles by better-informed group mates is an essential question in understanding the adaptive consequences of collective decision-making.
With pigeons, they used a time-shifting procedure (from an artificially set day-night clock) to manipulate the predictability of directional error in navigational information from established leaders within the swarm hierarchy of carrier pigeons (Columba livia).
]]>In animal groups where specific individuals disproportionately influence collective decisions, the whole group’s performance may suffer if these individuals have incorrect information. Whether leaders in such situations can be replaced in their roles by better-informed group mates is an essential question in understanding the adaptive consequences of collective decision-making.
With pigeons, they used a time-shifting procedure (from an artificially set day-night clock) to manipulate the predictability of directional error in navigational information from established leaders within the swarm hierarchy of carrier pigeons (Columba livia).
The shifting of the clock places the solar compass, an important navigation signal, in conflict with all other directional signs (e.g. visual, magnetic) in the pigeon's vicinity.
Experimental and leadership analysis (a)
Clearance protocol for the eight experimental pairs (b, c)
Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5046934/
The trial reveals that
Theoretically, it was predicted that in hierarchical decision-making, leader errors propagate downwards, resulting in inaccurate collective decisions. By introducing incorrect navigation information of a specific size at the top of the hierarchy, it was found that this disadvantage could be overcome in pigeon swarms: when leaders alone were poorly informed, swarms retained their existing routes, while if when whole swarms were misled (by shifting light clock), they showed divergent paths, albeit with a more minor than predicted deviation, as to be expected in pigeons familiar with the landscape.
So we can deduce that deception by shifting the (light) clock was successful, but leaders alone were unable to 'mislead' their swarms to the wrong routes.
Also significant is the decrease in leaders’ hierarchical ranks: in most swarms, their input in navigational decisions diminished when only their light clock was shifted. It is assumed that where a decline was observed in the hierarchical rank of leaders, this could be due to two non-exclusive mechanisms.
First, shifting the day/night clock may have made leaders uncertain about the quality of their information. Turning the clock places the solar compass, an important navigation signal, in conflict with all other directional cues (e.g. visual, magnetic) in the pigeon's environment. This conflict may have driven leaders to place less weight on their personal information and more on social information (i.e. copying that of peer groups). Uncertainty may also have reduced the flight speed of the (clock-shifted) leader, and because speed is associated with leadership in pigeons, a slower flight may cause pigeons to fall down the hierarchy.
This mechanism requires no recognition by followers that their leader has incorrect information. Alternatively, swarm members may actively have 'filtered out' low-quality information by reducing their reliance on social information from leaders. This may be due to recognising the increased conflict between their directional preference and that of the leader or detecting a clue (such as reduced speed) indicating uncertainty in the leader. The latter mechanism thus corresponds to followers who choose not to follow and the former to leaders who choose not to lead. At present, we cannot differentiate between these alternatives.
This study revealed that flexible decision-making structures could be valuable when information can be introduced with many errors by influential individuals. These results have implications for theoretical and experimental collective movement and navigation studies. They emphasise the importance of the quality of information and individual security of interactions between pigeons during swimming flights.
The loss of swarm-flying pigeons due to navigational errors under weak leadership is subject to "swarm compensation".
The numerous theories of how they navigate must now be viewed differently. It is best to take the expression "dumb pigeons" with a pinch of salt because they are masterful problem solvers.
We learn that pigeons also react (fly slower) when they become uncertain about their information. They fly cautiously and slower because they want to check the information on multiple navigational techniques. Just like humans, when they are no longer confident on the road, they will also drive slower. Before they are finally flying home alone in a race flight, frequent swarm splits appear, with a new leader taking the lead each time until the swarm consists of only three pigeons. In these splits, a pigeon from the group whose clock has not been moved (has correct information) will always take over as the better leader.
These measurements can help us interpret both individual stragglers and traumatising disaster flights…
The viruses have been living on this planet for 200 million years -i.e. much longer than us- and they don't just let themselves get pushed around...
So yes, the fancier has, in fact, the better profile for not pushing the habitat over much.
He enjoys being at home with his birds a lot. Besides performing well, he usually aspires to do much fewer material things that burden the environment. Still, instead, he relishes in amazement the magical capacities of his birds, which fills him with emotion.
For some time, I have been asked to explain the influence of hormones on the moult. On this exceptionally complex event, science is in unanimous agreement: namely, that they do not know the finer details. It is one of the most mysterious physiological phenomena that remains largely unexplained.The fact is that whoever handles it well as an aficionado can make a difference.
Regarding moulting, we do not provide schemes here, which can be read in thousands of writings anyway, but instead, the links between this phenomenon with several variables.
Some theories say hypotheses, exist because none of them is entirely conclusive. Many faculties have researched the influence of glands and all the hormones they produce, including the pineal gland or hypothalamus, which weighs only a few milligrams and is an important player.
This gland functions like a light switch, primarily regulating the day and night (light and dark) rhythm, with a pronounced influence on moulting, which is related to body temperature.
For instance, body temperature appears higher in light than in darkness. Removing this hypothalamus increases the temperature in both light and dark. It also controls other glands that, in turn, produce their hormones with particular properties, such as the pituitary gland (prolactin) but mainly the thyroid gland (thyrotropic hormone, responsible, among other things, for the development of the follicles of the new feathers). Secretion is subject to seasonal variations as a function of moulting, and it has been observed that this coincides with the build-up of fat stores, which in turn affects the entire metabolism.
Fat is fuel for generating heat and energy when flying or feeding the young. A logical connection between moulting, egg laying and breeding is at play here. Indeed, we observe that moulting during the last days of breeding is inhibited by prolactin (a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland) responsible for crop milk production.
Logically, the system chooses the process that provides the energy needed when feeding the young that is in charge of keeping the body warm during the moult.
The adrenal gland also plays a role in moulting. It produces the cortisone hormone, whose blood levels rise during darkness. Long periods of light do not affect the blood levels of cortisone.
Medicating naturally delays moulting and can also push the pain threshold. Corticosteroids stimulate fat deposits.
Their use during exhibitions as a moulting inhibitor and condition promoter was once widespread, hence now strictly forbidden. All the glands mentioned above and hormones also interfere with the enormously complex immune system, which is scattered throughout the body and responsible for defending against harmful invaders.
We have Fabricius' purse, thymus gland, spleen, tonsils, the Harder gland, bone marrow etc., all of which can produce cells (granulocytes, lymphocytes, macrophages etc.). In the blood and egg yolk, particular proteins (immunoglobulins) also have a significant role in the immune system.
It is also known that stimulating this system (e.g. vaccination) can have a direct and not insignificant effect on moulting and performance.
The impact of short-term and long-term stress affects the functioning of the autonomic nervous system (parasympathetic), which provides action ( through adrenaline) and recovery (acetylcholine). The dual action of the parasympathetic is expressed in English as "fight or flight" on the one hand and "rest and digest" on the other. It concerns the primal instinct of all creatures to survive in the wilderness.
This brief review provides a limited summary of a hugely complex endocrine (glandular) mechanism.
For example, hormones during reproduction, during which the breeding period affects moulting.
In other words, there are many hormones at play, which, moreover, all work together and with each other like a symphony concerning moulting, fertility, disease defence, energy production, etc... in short, the entire conscious and unconscious behaviour of the bird.
As a scientist, you become impressed, humbled and above all, grateful for the privilege of studying the good functioning of this higher form of life and applying the knowledge gained directly through refining dietary supplements at the service of health, medicine in general and sports performance in particular...
Thus, it is crucial to understand how this works and which imaging features and characteristics are essential for accurate diagnostic performance by the physician.
Critical insights into human behavioural tasks can often be obtained using appropriate animal models. The pigeon (Columba Livia) - which shares many visual system properties with humans - may serve as a promising observer of medical images, an ability that has never before been documented.
They appear to be remarkably able to distinguish benign from malignant human breast tumours based on tissue images. They achieved this by training (providing them with specific food depending on whether they drew the right or wrong conclusions).
More significantly, the pigeon can generalise what it has learned when confronted with new image sets. Like humans, the pigeon's histological (concerning microscopic tissue sections) accuracy was moderately affected by the presence or absence of colour and the degree of image compression. Still, these effects could be improved with further training.
In radiology, the pigeon could detect cancer-relevant microcalcifications on mammogram images.
However, when given a different task (and also quite difficult for humans), namely classifying suspicious mammographic densities (masses), the pigeons only proved capable of memorising images.
The achievements and difficulties suggest that pigeons are well suited to help us better understand (human) medical image perception. They may also be helpful in performance evaluation and development of medical image equipment, image processing and image analysis tools.
Thus, when taking a pigeon into hand and judging it, fanciers also look very carefully at the fascinating pigeon's eye. Although this can be only healthy or sick, some fanciers occasionally look for unique qualities by interpreting patterns and colours of the eye. In my opinion, this is instead a superstition.
The eyes of pigeons have always intrigued us, and for a very long time, theories (iriscope) were developed to attribute specific flight performance to a pigeon's eye.
This, according to most scientists, tends to lean towards quackery. The pigeon was originally a cave resident(see previous blogs).
In this protected environment, she and her community stayed together all day unless she had to get out to gather food. This lifestyle is no longer consistent with the current situation in the lofts. We are always advised to provide plenty of air and light.
Plenty of fresh air, yes, plenty of light, no, says my good friend Pol Huls, a wise fancier who, in his early years, spent days in libraries, searching and wrestling through all available literature to arrive at a total picture and complete understanding of the pigeon.
His impressive record proves that he has more than succeeded in this!
His pigeons sit in the twilight, so to speak, as their ancestors once did in the caves.
And what is the result?
No eye problems, either bacterial or viral. The eyes are perfectly healthy due to being at rest and unburdened. One might argue that daylight is necessary as it ensures vitamin D production.
Vitamin D is a factor in which the free-cave pigeon serves itself with the UV (daytime) light it needs. This contrasts with the partially captive racing pigeon, which may or may not be forcibly darkened.
Therefore, Vitamin D is not a vitamin but a hormone made in one part of the body to be used in another.
Vitamin D is barely present in cereals. Most of it is found in fish. Also, in eggs (that's why they are consumed immediately when broken so as not to lose anything). With forced darkening, there is not always a risk of deficiency for as long as they get sufficient (at least 20 min) outdoor light during the day...
Then there is the "Vitamin D connection" from Dr Campbell's book, who states in "the China study" on page 360 that vitamin D must first be converted to "supercharged vitamin D", the one that only takes care of its natural effect. Numerous serious diseases (cancer, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune diseases etc...) are attributed to a deficiency of this supercharged form of vitamin D.
Using the link below, I gladly share this precious book.
https://issuhub.com/view/index/4548?page=19
According to his insights, the conversion to this super active vitamin D is prevented in humans by animal nutrition. I have therefore become a strict vegan since 2011 after reading this work. My health has only improved since then.
Now that our earth is under tremendous pressure, it makes sense to take a look and go back to basics... As former troglodytes, perhaps we should finally wake up now that, for example, glaciers are melting much faster than predicted in Europe. It is not good because they form our tens of thousands of years-old fresh drinking water buffer that keeps our rivers flowing. Agriculture -on the fertile sludge carried away- has always been the foundation of our prosperity.
In a few decades, they will be gone, however much the Swiss try with the courage of despair to prevent it by putting white lines over them—a tragic scene. We are definitely up to no good. Shouldn't we unwind more locally near "our cave"? Flying thousands of kilometres to worship the sun is unsuitable for our climate, budget, skin (huge in massive malignant tumours), and eyes.
Let pigeons travel https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1731731/.
We also recommend adding Comin-Cholin B-Complex to the drinking water during this period. Comin-Cholin B-complex will help the pigeon at the end of the season to rebuild its strength against the start of the moulting season and help the young pigeons to cope well with the stress of transportation.
]]>We will be at the following exhibitions and hope to see you there!
]]>We will be at the following exhibitions and hope to see you there!
Pet's Today | October 07-09, 2022 |
International Color Canary Show | November 05-06, 2022 |
The Racing Pigeon Show | November 12, 2022 |
International Exhibition Sor | November 25-27, 2022 |
Gold Ring Show | December 03-04, 2022 |
57° campeonato ornitologico de españa/ focde talavera de la reina 2022 | December 09-12, 2022 |
Deutsche Brieftauben Ausstellung (DBA) | December 17-18, 2022 |
International Trade Fair of Racing Pigeons | January 06-08, 2023 |
World Championship of Ornithological COM 2022 | January 21-23, 2023 |
The BHW Show of the Year 2023 | January 21-23, 2023 |
International Pigeon sport fair | February 11-12, 2023 |
Spring Fair 2023 | March 04-05, 2023 |
National Days 2022 of Belgian racing pigeons | March 17-18, 2023 |
Location: Athens Metropolitan Expo SA, Athens (Greece)
Category: Animals and pets
More information: https://2022.petstoday.gr/en/
Location: Mechelbaan 604 2580 Putte (Belgium)
Organization: V.n.N.K. Geel - GC Klein Boom
Category: Birds
More information: www.vvnk.net
Location: Doncaster Racecourse, Doncaster (England)
Organization: The Racing Pigeon Co Ltd
Category: Pigeons
More information: https://doncasterpigeonshow.com/events/doncaster-racing-pigeon-show-2/
Location: Modena, Viale Virgilio, 58, 41123 Modena (Italy)
Organization: SOR
Category: Birds
More information: https://www.sor.re.it/en/home-english/
Location: Expo Roeselare, Diksmuidsesteenweg 400, 8800 Roeselare (Belgium)
Organization: vzw Gouden Ring Show
Category: Birds
More information: http://www.goudenring.be/
Location: Cl Salitre, 6, 04569 BENTARIQUE (Almería) Spain
Organisation: Asociación Ornitológica Deportivo Cultural Andarax
Category: Birds
More information: https://www.focde.com/
Location: Messe Westfalenhallen, Rheinlanddamm 200, 44139 Dortmund (Germany)
Organisation: Verband Deutscher Brieftaubenzüchter E.V.
Category: Pigeons
More information: https://www.brieftaube.de/verband/deutsche-brieftaubenausstellung
Location: International Congress Centre, Plac Sławika i Antalla 140-163 , Katowice (Poland)
Organization: Grupa PTWP
Category: Pigeons
More information: https://www.expogolebie.pl/2021/en/
Location: Mostra d'Oltremare, Viale John Fitzgerald Kennedy, 54, 80125 Napoli (Italy)
Organization: COM
Category: Birds
Location: Winter Gardens; Winter Gardens Blackpool, 97 Church St, Blackpool FY1 1HL (United Kingdom)
Organization: The Royal Pigeon Racing Association
Category: Pigeons
More information: https://bhwshowoftheyear.org/
Location: Kortrijk Xpo, Doorniksesteenweg 216, 8500 Kortrijk (Belgium)
Organization: Fugare
Category: Pigeons
More information: https://www.fugare.be/en/home/
Location: Meidoornkade 24, 3992 AE Houten (Netherlands)
Organization: Proffsport
Category: Pigeons
More information: https://expohouten.nl/evenementen/proffsport-voorjaarsbeurs-2/
Location: Plattebeekstraat 1, 2800 Mechelen (Belgium)
Organization: KBDB
Category: Pigeons
More information: https://expohouten.nl/evenementen/proffsport-voorjaarsbeurs-2/
We need to reflect on these turbulent times, where the climate is running wild in addition to viruses and war.
Global warming - well, it almost sounds banal - and the constant and relentless record-breaking heat waves yearly keep me awake. It is hoped that we are not heading for a turning point where much-needed measures that have long been envisaged will, if taken, be too late and no longer benefit.
]]>Global warming - well, it almost sounds banal - and the constant and relentless record-breaking heat waves yearly keep me awake. It is hoped that we are not heading for a turning point where much-needed measures that have long been envisaged will, if taken, be too late and no longer benefit.
Meanwhile, many leaders continue to watch these phenomena like rabbits watching a lightbox. Every minute, a forest the size of 40 football fields disappears on Earth.
Amazon forest under the management of President Balsenaro.
Our pigeons, very well adapted to heat, will undoubtedly suffer less than we, humanity, which is to blame for negligence.
The Columbia Livia (rock dove), from which our Columbia Livia domestic or domestic pigeon is descended, had a very efficient cooling system through water evaporation, which was up to 10 times more powerful than in the ordinary bird...
It is cool along a river or near a corn field because a lot of liquid water is evaporated into gaseous water vapour.
Once it is formed, water vapour particles move much further apart ( by 1.500 times) than in liquid water, containing much more energy. To achieve this state, this energy is extracted from the environment in the form of calories (heat), which cools the whole thing down (same system as a refrigerator). The (hot) air with the energy-rich evaporated water must be continuously discharged to keep the system running.
Simple representation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DlfGwBC6MHU
Slightly more complex: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XCWSP0Nil9M
"Entropy" is a notion in thermodynamics (part of physics) that studies this phenomenon.
The water vapour molecules move much further apart (and therefore contain much more energy) than the liquid from which they evaporate.
The pigeon is facing significant challenges here. Heat can be dissipated by conduction(*), radiation, and convection at skin level. The expansion of the blood vessels helps with conduction. However, this is counteracted due to the insulation provided by the plumage. In the summer, the feathering is airy to allow better heat dissipation; in the winter, it is suitably closed and covered with sebum to optimise insulation.
Above all, the pigeon must evaporate water to cool down and save water, so it does not dry out. Evaporation can only take place via the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. She can barely sweat (because there are no sweat glands on the skin) because the plumage would stick, and the wings would no longer work efficiently. (All this is controlled incredibly ingeniously by hormones, which we have discussed in previous blogs). All evaporation must therefore exit through the beak. They can accelerate the expulsion of air in case of excessive heat by rhythmic throat movements (similar to panting).
https://everythingnothuman.com/birds/how-do-birds-keep-cool/
Some breeds of pigeons in the southern hemisphere have adapted to very high desert temperatures and can still cool down by evaporating water on their skin (sweating). It enables them to regulate their temperature, e.g. during the breeding season. They managed to do so by modifying their skin structure (sweat glands).
This test is also revelatory. Two birds: our dove (Columba livia) and the partridge (Alectoris chukar), different in their habits and flying abilities, were compared in their ability to survive extremely high air temperatures.
During 270-minute survival tests, both were exposed to air temperatures between 45 and 60°C and low relative humidity. The pigeon proved unique in its ability to survive 270 minutes of exposure to 60°C while regulating its body temperature at 43.8°C. The partridge could not survive 270 minutes of exposure to air temperatures above 48 °C.
The pigeons appeared exceptional in their capacity for cutaneous (skin) evaporation. Levels of up to 20.9 mg H2O/cm-2/hr were measured at 52 °C air temperature compared to 2.4 mg H2O/cm-2/hr in the partridge. The total evaporation of the pigeon exposed to 56°C air temperature was about 20% higher than that in the partridge. The maximum evaporation of the pigeon exposed to 60°C was 34.4 mg H2O/g/hour.
The significance of cutaneous (through the skin and not through the respiratory tract) water loss for survival during extremely high air temperatures is addressed.
It concludes that birds can be classified into two groups of their physiological ability to withstand heat stress:
So pigeons are extraordinary survivors, and they can bring our overconfident to sometimes nonchalant and destructive attitude toward our beautiful planet to reason…
Let us reflect on their example. The moult and the shaping of the new plumage will be the next challenge. The significant temperature differences between day and night will become increasingly apparent in September. These differences influence the regulation of the body temperature, whereby the smooth changing of the plumage is essential.
The fancier's monitoring role during the moult is essential. He must balance out the extremes in the air temperature. He can protect the loft (close shutters) from the sharp drop in temperature at dawn.
However, the loft should remain airy. Think of the constant temperature of the cave in which the ancestors of the homing pigeon lived. The (amount of) food (not enough food stops the moult), the temperature, the amount of light etc., all play a role in the smooth progress of the moult.
As outlined in previous blogs, various glands and their secreted hormones and enzymes also have a significant role to play.
All these subtle balances should take place in ideal conditions.
The new feathers are brighter in colour, purer in outline, silkier and shinier than the old ones. Their quality is an essential indication of the general state of health and condition. A dull plumage often indicates an underlying disease process or an unbalanced diet. Feathers also tell a story of the past season where (V-shaped) grooves can be read as marks of rather painful events for the pigeon.
Going for a long time without eating, significant fatigue and heavy medication remain "marked in the remiges". When we encounter abnormal (more than just a random ruptured vein) and difficult-to-form new "blood remiges", there is usually something fundamentally wrong (diet, disease of parasitic, bacterial origin).
The new winter plumage (*) will weigh thirty per cent heavier than the summer plumage and is denser. So material must be supplied. COMED's Murium was developed to meet all these characteristics.
Many fanciers have a good routine here and sense when something deserves more than ordinary attention. A rich moult mixture and good moult supplements are standard. Therefore choose the Comed moulting schedule in which extension three is strongly recommended.
]]>They all secrete hormones, which are supposed to stimulate specific organs. Sometimes these organs are themselves glands, creating an incredibly complex control system.
Their range of activity is also extensive: growth, plumage (including colour), moulting, the migratory instinct based on orientation, sexual drives, territoriality as a male impulse versus the breeding instinct, nest-building, crop-milk production, as typically female impulses.There exists a random nervous system that provides "manual control" of the muscles (flying, eating, etc...) and an autonomous nervous system that controls itself, in other words, "an auto-pilot" (Heart rhythm, blood pressure, etc...).
This autonomous nervous system consists of two parts.
The parasympathetic first refers to everything that relates to resting and digesting (rest and digest). The second - the orthosympathetic - refers to everything that involves flight or fight (flight or fight). An essential part of the latter system is the adrenal gland. It is tiny and lies on top of the kidney. It can overdevelop and become forced due to vitamin A and B1 deficiencies, stress, cold and excessive exertion.
In turn, this adrenal gland consists of two parts: the outer cortex and inner marrow.
- The adrenal cortex produces cortisone and aldosterone.
Cortisone:
This endocrine production follows a day-night rhythm with a high cortisone output during the night in the dark.
Remarkably, supplementary lighting does not affect cortisone production.
Cortisone is responsible for replenishing fat deposits (the primary energy source for flying) and producing red blood cells, which are responsible for transporting oxygen-rich blood to the muscles.It creates a sense of well-being to overconfidence (good mood). Youngsters who receive it in even shallow doses seem tireless.
Aldosterone
It has a significant role in water management, vital not only during races, especially in the heat, but also in the case of flat manure.
- The (inner) marrow produces adrenaline and noradrenaline.
Adrenaline
Short-term stress (causing an "adrenaline rush") primes the body for significant exertion (fighting or fleeing).
Prolonged stress causes actual depletion with the exhaustion of reserves and the weakening of several vital functions (e.g. the immune system).
Noradrenaline
This is present in slightly higher concentrations than adrenaline, both in the brain and the nervous system, but in its role as a signal transmitter of the nerve impulses to the muscles. Both hormones increase sugar levels and blood pressure.
The role of essential oils on the glandular system
Many aromatics benefit the proper functioning of the glands in general and the adrenal gland in particular. The selection of these special plant oils is significant expertise of Comed. They are subtly dosed in our preparations.
Thus, various spare extracts contribute to balancing the fragile and complex system of the adrenal cortex...
Rely on Comed...
45 years of science.
As indicated above, our flying machine is mainly driven by lipids (= oil, grease). Most energy-rich fat molecules are stored in the red high-endurance chest muscle tissues. The glycogen molecules (carbohydrates = sugar), which are kept in the white muscles in the wings, are a secondary hybrid energy source and are less potent; they can be used only for brief periods due to increased lactate levels associated with increased effort (steering, landing, taking off).
The lipids will bind with inhaled oxygen, generating ATP, which acts as a battery, to enable the pigeon to fly for hours on end, while emitting innocuous carbon dioxide. Pigeons can draw vast amounts of oxygen from the air compared to humans (about 10 times as much). Cereal grains and legumes contain only 3 - 10% fat (oils) and 60 - 70% carbohydrates (starch). Proteins contain nitrogen and will not usually act as an energy source.
The breakdown of proteins is only possible in case of emergency and is undesirable because it produces ammonia, which in turn neutralises the acids in the digestive system which protect the system against pathogenic germs.
That is why we recommend the use of these important oils (Comedol, Curol) as part of our Comed racing diet. It has a limited range of use due to its liquid form (max 15ml/kg grains). That is why we developed Comed Load Pul (powder) and Load Caps (capsules). These body-like lipids are easy to digest and are simple in use, both in powdered form or capsules and can be given in large quantities.
Load Pul and Load Caps are invaluable supplements for middle and long distance racing birds.
! Increased UV light absorption is known to stimulate the storage of lipids in the muscles!
We always advised administering extra Megabactine during days of great heat.This preparation ensures the retention of an extrasupply of water in the intestine through the formation of a gel. Birds do not have a bladder as a urine reservoir but acloaca, in which manure and urine are mixed.The system is very sophisticated and assists inmanaging the water supply optimally.
Sometimes, too much water is discharged.
Wet manure?
The contents of the cloaca can be moved up into thelarge intestine by intestinal movements, where the water can be reabsorbed intothe bloodstream, or a short movement can accidentally push the droppings downtoo early, which appears as diarrhoea.
Changes in diet and drink intake, as well as (heat)stress conditions, cause a shift in this balance, with watery droppings beingwrongly attributed to infection.
Many fanciers then raise the alarm and immediately putantibiotics in the water; sure enough, things are already moving in the rightdirection.
However, this is due to the reduced water absorption asa result of the taste of the dissolved antibiotic (chemical agent), which leadsto a correction and the manure becoming drier again.
When it is hot, the birds need extra energy to keeptheir body temperature down (air conditioning operation).
Our birds are powerful and live proportionally muchlonger than mammals of the same weight because their metabolism can generateenormous amounts of energy from oil, using lots of oxygen to make flyingpossible.
The COMED range and the various schemes, inparticular, are built on this principle.
Read more about this in the arch article The pigeon is an amazing flying machine.
]]>Indeed, inflation, which had already started with increased energy prices, is swelling with more demand than supply. It is the well-known spiral in which prices and wages leapfrog for both essential and non-essential expenditure.
Fortunately for families, Belgium is still one of the only countries in Europe where wages are automatically linked to the price index. The employer has to cope with these wage increases and has no choice but to pass these costs on to the final consumer. Wage increases are negotiated in a collective agreement (CLA) between employers and employees in most other countries.
In China, there is also absolute zero tolerance for COVID-19, which means that ports can go into lockdown for several weeks at any time. It would mean that scarce but essential goods such as chips could not be shipped to customers in time, further increasing prices. Like any crisis, we will certainly be able to learn lessons afterwards that will benefit Europe's future. But first, there will be a valley of after-effects and recovery.
Adequate managers to lead us out of this have yet to be found. Usually, these are highly educated CEOs with impressive titles from academies and credentials (such as the famous Vlerick school).
The best managers of a country are also our good housewives. They always manage to make ends meet with a fair family distribution of the joys and burdens. Therefore, we are convinced that they will handle the consequences of a financial crisis as always. Pigeon racing will undoubtedly weigh on the family's finances.
In the morning, birds are whistling profusely again. It goes on throughout the breeding season until the longest day of the year. Nature is awakening, offspring are being cared for, and territories are being marked out. They need this territory to collect food for their upcoming offspring. Everything in biological life is about the domain.
When breeding starts, the hormone levels that stimulate dominance and fertility rise. It is a well-known annual ritual. The so-called urge for territory is reflected in everything: the battle for the shelf, the stick, or the widowers' boxes. In every creature, this urge to conquer territory is associated with survival and the continuation of its genes.
We are therefore talking about a severe matter. This urge keeps the whole living, biological world running. The minerals are the dead base of the territory: the earth, the air and the fire. These elements cannot multiply themselves and are therefore static.
The last of the biological life forms are micro-organisms. The viruses (Herpes, Rota, Circovirus) are open to philosophical debate: whether they are alive since they are just a piece of chemistry (DNA) that can reproduce like the cuckoo in a host cell. The bacteria (microbes such as E. Coli, Salmonella) and the single-celled protozoa (Coccidiosis, Trichomonads) are the first steps toward higher biological forms. It is a fascinating story but would lead us too far.
Consider the algae that populate the oceans in staggering numbers and practice photosynthesis. As plankton, they are an important source of food for fish and, at the same time, they ensure the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Us mammals, the higher species of the animal world, also originate from the ocean. The entire biological world consists of a dynamic interaction between the dead and the living.
It brings us back to the primal game, with its simple rule:
"The survival of the fittest"
It became Comed's parole and our season's schedules. From now on, they can be applied in their entirety again. In addition to the regular products from the programs, we would like to draw attention to a special supplement: Tempo 60.
Tempo 60 sharpens the described urge for territory with temperament, grit and dominance. It is the impetus to take up the first challenge of life. We need to get the above primary elements of earth, air and fire right in our heads to be able to read a pigeon. Tempo 60 also ensures that the pigeons train much more after a few days to build up their condition quickly and be more vital for the considerable upcoming work. Therefore, the Comed schemes are entirely in line with the brutality of these natural laws.
Nasocur is also important in connection with the territory. It is a powerful nose drop to keep the upper respiratory tract clear. It contains aromatic substances that soothe the mucous membranes. Due to its particular composition, the liquid lingers in the nasal and pharyngeal cavities for a long time.
The minor wounds that can occur due to the basket pressure (sitting close together during transport in combination with territoriality) are immediately softened.Closely sitting together is the opposite of the primal urge to have a territory. Therefore, it is essential to apply Nasocur when basketing and after inspection, immediately upon returning home. The product may also be used around the eyes. Ideally, it would be best to combine this treatment with Lisocur eye drops.