Racing pigeons are kept all over the world. Birds are generally raised in groups in confined flight pens and each pigeon pair supplied with two nest boxes. However the birds generally have access to outdoor flight areas and the unconfined outdoors. The nature of the sport requires that birds from different breeders and different regions are brought together to compete in distance races. Birds are transported together and transport is stressful often causing sub-clinical conditions to surface. In preparation for the races there are often communal vaccination clinics that again bring together birds from different areas. Usually vaccination needles are used on multiples birds. Pigeon racing is a social event and club members meet regularly and often share equipment. All of these things pose a risk for transmission of disease causing agents. It is well documented that diseases such as Newcastle disease (PMV1), pigeon circovirus, pigeon herpesvirus and chlamydiosis (ornithosis) have been transmitted during these activities.
The biggest biosecurity challenges for racing pigeon fanciers is to design management systems and racing protocols that will reduce disease risks for their home flocks and still be enable them to enjoy the sport. Sound flock health programs including appropriate vaccination at least 3 weeks before races, carefully designed quarantine facilities, good sanitation etc. are keys areas in the biosecurity program. As racing pigeons are free-flying there is always the possibility of contact with wild birds and feral pigeons and the risk of disease transmission in both directions. PMV1, trichomonas, pigeon circovirus, pigeon herpesvirus, salmonellosis are common diseases in feral pigeons in Ontario.
Pigeon facilities pose certain human health risks that must be considered when designing the facilities and setting the daily work schedules. Pigeon fecal dust is highly allergenic and may cause serious respiratory disease for people. Appropriate protective clothing for everyone working in the barn including the use of filter masks are important. Pigeon barns need good ventilation. Zoonotic diseases of pigeons including salmonellosis and chlamydiosis (ornithosis) are quite in pigeon flocks.
The fact sheets on this site that are pertinent to racing pigeon production include all of the principles of biosecurity and all of those in the management section. The 6 anatomy fact sheets are applicable to all types of birds.