Why Are My Pigeons Dying?
Life is a gift which is why we call every day the present. The day you are born is the day it was decided that one day, you will eventually die, just like most living beings.
Pigeons are no exception to this rule. There are various factors at play when keeping pigeons.
A popular question that keepers ask is, why are my pigeons dying? It could be trauma or health reasons right down to the living conditions you placed upon them when you decided to have them as pets. Death is the inexcusable premise that comes with life.
Read this article to learn more.
Looking For More Blog:
- Why Did the Passenger Pigeon Go Extinct?
- Why Are Pigeons Attracted to My House?
- Why Are Clay Pigeons Called Clay Pigeons?
How Do You know If Your Pigeon Is Dying?
There are telltale signs that your pigeon is dying. There are certain traits healthy pigeons have versus dying or sickly ones.
1. Inactivity: Pigeons are very active unless they are roosting or brooding. They are social, even quarrelsome in groups.
2. Fidgeting: They usually fidget, any change in this behavior is a sign your pigeon is dying.
3. Self Isolation: Pigeons are never seen alone unless scouting for food.
4. Lack Of Energy: If a pigeon is found by itself in a cage, then that is a telltale sign. Lack of appetite, lethargy and excessive sleeping are a few signs that tell something is wrong.
5. Irregular Molting: Another trait to look out for is Irregular Molting. Molting is a part of a pigeon’s lifecycle.
6. Dull Feathers: If you notice your pigeon’s plumage is looking dull or falling out that is another indicator that your pigeon is dying.
7. Balding: Bald spots on the body and diarrhea are signs to look for as well.
Do Pigeons Grieve When Their Babies Die?
Birds in general do not mourn over the loss of their young, they focus all of their energy in keeping their remaining young alive.
In some cases Pigeons may lose their appetite over the loss of their young ones or a partner as they are monogamous and family oriented birds.
What Does It Mean When You See a Pigeon Dying?
There are some symbolic connotations to seeing birds die, and it could be a sign that you are struggling to find peace within yourself or with your close relationships.
It is supposed to mean to be careful whom you share things with, as not everyone you meet has your best interest at heart.
It could also be a sign that you might be on a self-destructive path, that it might be a time for you to step back from your friends, family, situations, and relationships that encourage negative behavior.
If you see pigeons dying near your house, another meaning could be that you are neglecting yourself for the sake of others.
These are all symbolic meanings, and you can choose what a pigeon dying could mean to you based on your situation. However, these meanings are simply symbolic.
Causes Pigeons to Die Suddenly?
Pigeons are susceptible to a wide array of diseases. They are also carriers of certain diseases.
1. Zootonic Birds
They are zoonotic creatures; in most cases they die from diseases they carry or something they caught during their lifetime.
2. Old Age
Aging is another cause of death amongst pigeons. Older pigeons experience a decline in their agility, strength, sensory and digestive systems. This causes pigeons to experience death.
3. Short Life
Pigeons have a short lifespan of only 6 years and the aging process is rather rapid if not properly taken care of, whether by themselves or through a handler.
They are smart creatures and require little maintenance, but make sure your windows are anti reflective to prevent pigeons from crashing into your windows. Take enough safety precautions when taking care of pigeons.
What Can I Do to Prevent My Pigeons from Dying?
There are some preventative measures you can take to ensure the longevity of your pigeons’ lifespan.
1. Check for Visible Injuries
Pay close inspection for visible injuries, try wrapping a gauze snuggly over the wound or broken appendages until help is received from a professional.
2. Keep a Healthy Diet
You can add a lot to their diets in terms of nutrition, be sure to give them foods rich in nutrients. Try offering water to any injured pigeons you encounter.
3. Know When To Make Peace
Understand when it is time to let go, know that you tried your best making your pigeon alive, but some things are just beyond our control.
4. Address With Your Vet
Always consult your doctor before making big decisions with your pigeons, and follow their instructions to the best of their abilities. Never try to administer medicine yourself with your pigeons.
5. Dispose It Gently
Try to dispose of the carcass by wrapping it in a bag and placing it in the trash with the lid closed, or you can give it a burial.
6. Proceed With Caution
Predators will often dig up those for food. Death is a part of life, and it is beyond our control when someone is destined to leave the earth.
Conclusion
We can establish the key fact that death is inevitable, and it is random. Anyone can die at any given time, but with death, we start to appreciate the gift of life more.
Life is beautiful but fragile, and we must do whatever we can to ensure good health.
I believe after going through the reasons and preventive measures, you no longer have to ask yourself, why are my pigeons dying?
Now you know why pigeons die, and age is the reason; carrying a bunch of diseases could be another reason.
While getting attached to your pigeons is normal, it is important to understand that despite our best efforts, all living beings die, and that is the harsh truth of reality.
If you enjoyed this article, make sure to share it on your social media. You can connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest to find more interesting articles on pigeons and similar topics, so do not forget to follow us.
Image Credit:
- Photo from iStock (Debbie Rinehart)
- Photo from Kidadl
- Photo from MSCPA-Angell
- Photo from Pixabay (oudba_msi)
- Photo from Stock Adobe (Fotony76)
Article References:
- https://kidadl.com/facts/how-long-do-pigeons-live-learning-about-these-urban-dwellers
- https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/what-do-about-pigeons
- https://voice.gardenbird.co.uk/how-to-help-an-injured-pigeon/
