When selecting a site for large-scale pigeon breeding, an architectural loft is essential. The ideal location should meet the following basic conditions:
1. The terrain should be high and dry with good drainage. It’s best if the site faces south or southeast, which facilitates natural ventilation, lighting, and helps maintain a comfortable temperature—cool in summer and warm in winter.
2. There must be a sufficient and clean water supply. Planting some trees around the area can provide shade and improve the environment.
3. The location should be easily accessible for transporting feed, eggs, and waste.
4. A reliable power supply is necessary for lighting, heating, and other operations.
The design of the loft depends on the number of pigeons being raised and their growth stage.
(1) Breeding lofts are typically used to house pairs of breeding pigeons in individual cages. These cages are usually made of iron mesh, with standard dimensions of 70 cm x 50 cm x 50 cm. Each cage is divided into two layers, allowing for separate nesting areas. The nest bowl has a diameter of 25 cm and a height of 8 cm, making it easy for high-producing pigeons to separate hatching and brooding, thus avoiding disturbances. The cage also includes external feed troughs, water bowls, and sand cups.
These lofts can be open-plan with movable tarps or built within bungalows using dovetailed cages. Each cage has a removable platform for cleaning. The main advantage of this system is that it keeps the pigeons stable, promotes even feeding, and ensures cleanliness, making management easier. It also results in higher fertilization, hatching, and survival rates. However, one downside is that pigeons cannot engage in bathing or exercise.
(2) Group breeding lofts are usually single-row cottages, measuring about 12–18 meters long, 2.5 meters high, and 1.1 meters wide. They are divided into 4–6 small rooms using cages or wire nets. Each room can house 32 pairs of breeders or 50 young pigeons. A single person can manage up to 128–192 breeding pairs or 200–300 young birds. The building features front and rear windows, with the front window lower and the rear higher. Two footwells are placed 40 cm above the ground on the back wall to ensure proper ventilation.
A 1-meter-wide passage runs in front of the loft, with doors opening directly to the path. On either side of the passage, there are 30 cm wide and 5 cm deep drains. In front of the loft, there should be a sports area twice the size of the building, surrounded by wire mesh on three sides and open at both ends. The ground should be covered with river sand, which should be changed regularly. Homemade drinking fountains can be created by filling a bottle with water, removing a small bowl, and flipping it upside down to create a continuous water source. A board should be placed above the window for resting.
Outside the sports area, planting trees or building a shaded shed can offer additional comfort. A tub (36 cm in diameter and 15 cm deep) should be provided for bathing, and any wastewater should be drained immediately after use. During winter, the temperature inside should be maintained above 6°C.
(3) For smaller-scale breeding, especially as a family sideline, simple lofts can be constructed using available spaces like courtyards, old buildings, or rooftop balconies. As long as they protect against wind, rain, and pests like snakes and rats, they can be effective. In rural areas, existing structures such as holes or gatehouses can also serve as suitable lofts. In northern regions with cold winters, additional heating measures should be taken to ensure the well-being of the pigeons.
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