Long Distance Feeding Training and Resting in Racing Pigeons

[@ricocruz1071]

Very informative and thank you!!!

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Happy you liked it.

[@peterdempsey1887]

H FRANK we met in Blackpool I love your no nonsense approach and simplicity of housing birds kindest regards Peter dempsey

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Hello Peter, You made my day in Blackpool and I hope you saw yourself in this video. Do you email? Mine is [e-mail] You are in this video right in the beginning. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aX23hJpoa9aAqdE Your New Pigeon Buddy, Frank

[@JALALILOFT]

Wow what a great Ticher❤Thank you so much

[@Pigeonmaniacom]

Great tips Frank, thank you for sharing. I hope to learn your thoughts about young birds feeding too. Most commercial mixes have peas in their Junior mixes while some fanciers say youngsters develop and train well without any peas in the mix. I am really curious to see why you don't like peanuts for pigeons. I've been using them for years, you can have a lot of fun taming pigeons because they love them so much. Also they instantly fill them for long racing events. I rarely use them now, but they are great if you want to quickly recover a very weak pigeon that was lost for days. Speaking of losing pigeons, feeding for long distance has always been a concern for me - I agree that ideally they must be light but what happens if the races are very hard, will they have enough fuel to get back home? Many of our long distance races end the second day after liberation, or even the 3rd day, still with prizes. I had a pigeon falling on the ground with no fuel or muscles just 1 mile before reaching home, a club mate called me to go get it. The bird was feeding on the ground with the poultry. 1 mile away from home! Another concern I had was about what happens to their intestinal flora switching so fast from all fiber low protein and low fat barley mix to a high protein and fat mix but I guess I worry too much. 😄 Keep posting great videos!

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

All great questions. I will do a video on Peanuts. The problems is that I manage bodyweight so close that fanciers using peanuts are giving too much fat during the season. Off season peanuts are fine to tame etc. There is a fine line where they need enough energy to complete the distance race at a good pace. Most of my races are over on the day of return and the birds fly 10 to 14 hours and are fueled for these flights. USA does not usually have two day or three day races. Switching the feed around does not effect the gut flora at all. I do use all the high fat seeds to help the pigeons recover and maybe peanut could be good. Problem is I want the recovering the pigeons to eat more a variety and they would eat mostly peanuts. Keep up the great questions.

[@Pigeonmaniacom]

@@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons Thank you. Makes sense. Variety is important and if they have peanuts the rest of the food becomes invisible. 😆

[@johnprince7445]

Thanks again Frank for another great video. Just wondering if you have any suggestions for a DIY energy mix. I have access to most grains but not the brand name mixes you suggest. Anyway, thanks for the great info.

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Hi John, What seeds can you get? You can certainly mix your own.

[@johnprince7445]

Thanks Frank. I have access to wheat, corn, field peas, barley, canola, safflower, milo, lentils and canary seed. I am sure I have everything I need but some ideas on percentages would be greatly appreciated.

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

I would go with mostly barley say 70% and then mix equal parts 5% wheat, 10% Safflower, 5% canola, 5% lentils and 5% canary seed. You would have a super racing mix.

[@josephsobremonte1023]

Thank you so much Sir Frank! Your the best from the Philippines! 🙏 🙏 🙏

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

So nice of you

[@luisrojo-sanchez2491]

Hi Frank, I’ve been rewatching your videos as it seems that I catch something new every time I watch them. Our schedule for old birds is 10 weeks starting at 150miles all the way to 550 miles. I have a team or 20 birds what’s your advice as birds are expected to race weekly to be considered for any recognition. Thank you in advance for your time. You are doing an amazing job and I’ve notice a huge difference in the last 2 weeks since I change feeding

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Hello Luis, If you must race them weekly I would let them have two days of rich seeds when they return each week. This will help them recover. Feed 80% barley and 20 grain mix Monday to Thursday for short races. On short races considering that you ship on Friday give them fat seeds day of shipping and for two days when they return. For long races feed 80% barley Monday to Wednesday with two days of fat seeds before shipping. They pigeons flying each week only need one exercise flight per week on Thursday if you race on Saturday. Your focus must be on recovery and rest so they can race week after week. Correct feeding and rest and your pigeons can excel all season every week.

[@RonEvans-ul5ym]

Brilliant Frank realy enjoyed the video makes a lot of sense keep up the information

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@ausfuhrpramienjagar]

Great info Frankie.. Thanks for the upload and keep 'em coming. 👍... Kevin

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

I am having fun with these video and glad you enjoyed.

[@eddieortiz4276]

Great video 👍 Thanks for sharing.

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Thanks for watching! I appreciate this and hope I can help.

[@leechang7832]

Thank you Frank, this is very helpful.

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

You're very welcome. This works for me and maybe gives fanciers something to think about.

[@Stephen-xp5th]

Love the video's Frank thanks for sharing your Ideas. I love racing the longer races and have clocked several times at 14-17 hours on the wing when many fanciers have just got a stiff neck. I do feed a light feed compared to many ( no peas or beans)Just trying to decide if I'm brave enough to feed as light as light you.

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Where do you race? Here where I am my races are over in 10 to 14 hours on the day usually. It is a fine line being light enough and having enough energy.

[@Stephen-xp5th]

@@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons HI Frank I fly in the UK, and to be fair all but the longest races are normally over by 14 hrs. however when we get 450 miles plus the amount of day birds generally decreases significantly. On the south route out of France the English channel can be tough, on the North route out of Scotland there's the Scottish mountains and weather to deal with and those races are nearly always against the wind. Having said that wherever you are racing 500-600 is tough, our little feathered friends are getting towards the end of their endurance capabilities.

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

This is rough where you are racing on the long distance. You may want to feed two days of high fat seeds before shipping for such extremely tough races. See if you can send them buoyant without having extra weight but enough fat stores to fly all day against the wind.

[@dionhector6599]

Hi there frank we in the carribean race from island to island sometimes my birds on there release from another island have to fly 90miles of sea with a cross wind first then 30 miles if land to reach home what would be your feeding method be we ship during the week

[@firstflightloft]

This is exactly what I need to learn going into this hobby, new subscriber here!

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

So happy I could help. Read the tips, articles and secrets on my website. Endless info for the fancier. Welcome to our great sport. mclaughlinlofts.com/

[@burakloft568]

Thank you for your help. I am planning on going doing your feeding program this year. Looking forward to it. Question for you if I can’t get barely can you feed wheat instead?

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Try to round up barley. If not we can look at some other options and get you a feeding program that is first class.

[@burakloft568]

@@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons that would be great. Some of barely around here is no very dusty and dirty and even hard to come bye sometimes. This why I am asking

[@ashsharif1]

Hi Frank, enjoying your videos, very informative. Keep up the good work. All the best from, Ash in London England.

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Awesome, thank you!

[@hennessyloftnewyorkpigeonr9848]

Very informative as usual thanks again I look forward to the next one

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

So happy you enjoyed. I am having fun doing these.

[@yllismakaj5734]

Thank you very much Mr. Frank for nice videos you are posting every week

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

You are very welcome. Glad you are enjoying. Share with your friends.

[@TravelwithRomer]

Hi Frank. More power to you and your channel. Do you have a book as a guide for new flyers?

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

This is very nice of you. I have some articles on my website for more information you may like. I will keep adding more videos but read the articles and Secrets. mclaughlinlofts.com/

[@accessnot44]

Thank you Frank. Looking forward to your live stream.

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Hi Anthony, I will do a Live Stream soon. I really enjoy those.

[@MrTy1984]

New subscriber here. Great video

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Glad you liked it. Hope you can join my live steam today.

[@ebelcon]

Thank you Mr. Frank your guidance is much, much appreciated.

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Happy you enjoyed.

[@هيثمماضي-ذ2ق]

Thank you mr Frank for sharing.

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

You are very welcome

[@KarlRau-os3zj]

as always Frank well presented! You state you feed a rich feed at weeks end...Champion, Energy and "Sneaky"? I tend to overthink things I know but what is the approx ratio of these 3 (OR is it fed free choice?)

[@KarlRau-os3zj]

Just discovered VL Sneaky mix...was unaware of it! Still interested in ratios....

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

I feed free choice of the mixes and let them eat what they want when I am loading them up for a long race. I mix equal parts and let them choose. Much more feed is placed in front of them than they could possibly eat after the race or when I load them up before the long race.

[@pphc8809]

Hi Frank Thanks for all the info I have one question tho How does you feed in off season and moulting season Do you keep them on the same 80 to 20 percent mix or do you feed differently

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

During the molt I feed all they want of Champion Mix from Versele Laga. Any good mix with say 16% protein will do. They need plenty of a good mix during the molt. Once the molt is complete it does not matter too much what you feed as long as they have plenty of minerals and grits in front of them. Off season and winter I feed corn and pellets like in my video here. Keeps cost down and the birds look great. I start racing in one month and my race team are still on the corn and pellet mix. I have been reducing the amount the last month. I will switch off to more barley today. kzbin.info/www/bejne/a4bUp6ecpLZjn68

[@pphc8809]

Thanks Frank It is a cheaper option

[@quinteroloft9530]

@@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons Thanks for the videos. Do this abrut change in feed will induce molt?. I was told this by few people

[@epicweblinks6469]

Frank thanks for your videos. On Thursday only, do you feed them as much as they want, or still the 760g pot for 30 hens? I hear you say, enegy mix, champion and sneaky on Thursday, do you put equal parts of these mixes? Thanks for advice.

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Hello, On Thursday for the long distance they get all they want. You can mix equal parts and let them have what they want. I give plenty. You can also just mix Sneaky and Energy. Champion is optional.

[@rogerphillips2550]

Hi on the Thursday you mention you give energy high fats mix but in what percentages and of what mixes please. I’ve been a successful racing man and breeding out to first National, many thanks in advance

[@keti7337]

Thank you for your video very helpful, I have a question how many times a day you feed the birds?

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

You must feed the race team only once per day,. If you feed more than once a day you will overfeed the pigeons.

[@mariot8701]

Great information 👍🏻👍🏻 Can I use oat seeds instead of barley?? Thanks

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Maybe oats in the hull. That should work if you cannot get barley. The oats must be in the hull. Let me know what happens.

[@mickgolden5987]

Excellent video thank you extremely helpfully

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

I am having fun. The competition is going to get stronger if they apply simple methods.

[@stefanipcar85]

I follow you with pleasure and interest. On the widow system is this feeding at marathons? or is it motivated otherwise? Thank you in advance.

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

I do not motivate the pigeons in any way. I have found motivation is useless. Here are my thoughts on motivation here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mYfUdYCNhd57mNk

[@petmorocco]

with success 🙋

[@johnnydummett7216]

Great video great lesson tnk a lot

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

So happy you liked it.

[@firepigeons]

Excellent advice Frank, thank you. I used to think that the first meal after a hard race should be easy to digest because the body struggles, and I never offered peas in the mix to avoid digestion problems. For the second meal I introduce the peas, like in the Champion mix you mention. What do you think? Don't you see any problems with peas right after they arrive?

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Put everything you have in front of the pigeons. Champion Mix, Safflower, high fat seeds, pellets you name it. Let them take exactly what they want when they return from a long race or any race. The pigeons know what they need to replenish their system quickly. Nature is amazing.

[@firepigeons]

Makes sense, thank you Frank.

[@goldeneyeloft]

I made all those overfeeding mistakes, unknowingly my birds were like chickens and was thinking healthy and its okay that time, some also recement me to hand feed them 2 days before the races, and I did lol...my birds made home next day. Thanks Frank. after learning what to feed like you mention, I have won some races with 1 combine races. thanks for your tips. also I want to know about short or middle distance races how much % of barley % should I feed. please advice. thank

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Check out this video for Short Distance: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pIuXgJSYbc16Z5I Email me [e-mail] and I will send you my feeding system that is easy to follow.

[@goldeneyeloft]

@@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons will do thanks Frank

[@MarloMaree]

Hi Frank, what do you feed on Friday on the truck?

[@pichongmc]

Thank you for the Tips Mr Frank but quick question,how would you manage old birds ir you would fly every week instead of every 2 weeks,

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

You can certainly fly them each week. You would have to rest for a few days on the barley mix then feed them the rich feed for a couple days. One training flight of about an hour the day or shipping or day before shipping is plenty if they must race each week.

[@pichongmc]

Thank you for taking the time and responding comments,and thank you for the information

[@TanzLoft]

thank you Frank. what are temperature range when you race ? I think fatty acid (they will increase weight) can work well in high temperature . I am considering race around 35+c :)

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

My long distance races are in June and some of the temperatures can be in the 27 to 34 Celsius. It can be warm during the end of the old bird season. We start cold and damp and end hot and damp.

[@TanzLoft]

@@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons what is loss ratio when race at 34c? Also how long usually they take for 550 miles flight?

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Hard to say about losses. Most in great condition come back. A 550 mile flight will be between 12 and 14 hours for me

[@AdamArcherPigeons]

You'd have a heart attack if you saw how some fanciers feed here in Australia. Even some "long distance" guys feed on just peas, or peas and wheat 😯

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

They feed like their grand fathers fed. That is crazy.

[@AdamArcherPigeons]

@@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons We both know what pigeon flyers are like, many will never change no matter how much evidence you show them.

[@5161estel]

Hello Adam, when does your long distance season start in Australia?

[@Bigbuster1988]

Hello ,, do you know the results of these fanciers that that fed that way over the years ?? Maybe it works for them ?

[@AdamArcherPigeons]

@@5161estel We only have one season. Starts end of May/beginning of June at 100km, ends end of September/start of October at 1000km.

[@lahamatik386]

Thank you ! Sir Frank for sharing tips.

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Any time! Happy I can help bit.

[@Bigbuster1988]

Old timers where I’m from say let your birds out the morning after a race , “ to get the lactic acid out of there bodies “ thoughts on that please Frank ??

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

That is one of the the thing that is passed down through the years. This is not needed at all and the race birds should remain in the loft and rest. The lactic acid will be removed naturally. Last season I had an amazing race. Due to the circumstances my pigeons did not leave the loft between the races. Not a single flight. I think I had ten in the top 22 of the combine. I was amazed.

[@kelly182237]

Total bs crap

[@MrTy1984]

I would say there is some evidence for this as it’s proven in humans that light exercise does help dispel lactic acid. I may try this

[@henrymiller5956]

Hello Frank You have a great channel, many interesting and educational things. I have one question, the pigeons will have a race on 06.07.2023 of 500 km, then they should be home for 3 weeks and rest for the race from Berlin 1115 km at the beginning of August. Are these three weeks of rest too much?

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Three weeks rest is not too much but you much continue to exercise the pigeons up until shipping of the 1115 km. After a few days rest on the 500 km you can keep exercising them a few times per week and also give them a two hour flight the week before the 1115 km. Best case is to fly the 500km two weeks before the 1115 km race.

[@henrymiller5956]

@@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons Thanks for quick response. I wish you much happiness and health in life and pigeon racing.

[@kevinburnett1475]

Mr Mc Laughlin could you please make a video on the origin of racing pigeon like what they use to cross to get the racing pigeon im from trinidad and tobago 🇹🇹

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Hello Kevin, I should do a bit more research and put a video out on this. I did know this years ago.

[@juansuarez9092]

Thank you .Im learnig a lot with your videos. What do you mean the pigeon need to have 6 hours of flight time a week before the long distace race?

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

For a pigeon to be able to fly 10 to 14 hours in a long race it must have at least a 6 hour flight two weeks before the long race. Even 7 days before is will work some of the time but I like a six hour flight two weeks before a long race.

[@juansuarez9092]

@@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons Thank you, but I live in a island, I only can Give 55 km training What do you recomed me? I folow yuor sisten 80% barly betwen the island fantasti 3 race and always my pigons in front. In three week we star mide fond over the sea 400 kilómetros, late 500 km, 700 km a the Last 800 km. One more thank you for your advice

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

So happy you had great results! Congratulations!

[@sayurigomez7524]

Hi Frank, our combine schedule, specially the long distance, is not made to rest the pigeons or have two teams, we have 380 mls, 440 mls, 500 mls and then repeats again, so week after week yo have to send your birds. In south Florida weather is hot and humid therefore pigeons get wasted really easy if you don’t feed properly, without mentioning that training is twice a day to keep them in shape, one of the most competitive places on USA. I don’t know if barley can keep pigeons with the nutrients that they need for the demand. Your advice is highly appreciated.

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

The Florida guys over work the birds. They cannot race every week with training twice a day. Usually the races are fast so you must race recover and race. If you are racing the birds week after week. Feed 80% barley and 20 grain mix Monday to Thursday for short races. On short races considering that you ship on Friday give them fat seeds day of shipping and for two days when they return. For long races feed 80% barley Monday to Wednesday with two days of fat seeds before shipping. They pigeons flying each week only need one exercise flight per week on Thursday if you race on Saturday. Your focus must be on recovery and rest so they can race week after week. Correct feeding and rest and your pigeons can excel all season every week.

[@riaanarendse784]

Thank you for the tip

[@xumarineaddicts8810]

Hi Frank, we here fly about 300 miles every week for 4 matches in a month, how to apply for your method

[@markjacobbondoc7336]

Hello frank. Very nice tips.. im from philippines. Is this applicable to our country very hot and different terrain high mountain for our north race and then sea crossing for south race? Thank you.

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Hello Mark, I feel this will work great in your country. You will be very impressed.

[@markjacobbondoc7336]

@@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons thank you so much frank. I will apply this system of feeding and also your derby natural system. Thank youuu

[@dinkfair]

Can you please teach me weekly conditioning sir? because here in the Philippines we have 6-7 Laps of race and conditioning is very crucial,Thank you

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

If the birds are fed correctly they need to be trained adequately before the season. Maybe three or four times from 60 miles before the first race. During the season if they race and then train two times per week between races you can be okay. I race them on Saturday and train Tuesday and Thursday from 35 to 65 miles depending on what they need and how the body weight is.

[@dinkfair]

@@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons thank you for answering sir frank much appreciated,I'm only starting to race Pigeon can I use 80 percent barley sir even if we have different climate? I believe what you believe that proper feeding is the key to success

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

@@dinkfair The climate will not matter. Use the barley and see what happens. You will do great. I have all different weather during my season from cold and damp at the start to hot and humid at the end.

[@dinkfair]

@@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons Thank you so much sir Frank

[@stevenpiralis9889]

Do you have a video on getting the birds fit prior the ist race and maintaining the muscle to perform.. and what protein amount do you feed at the Training stage and during tossing.cheers

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Hey Steven, 50% barley and 50% Versele Laga Champion is a great mix to train on. They do not need high protein for training or racing. If they are light and corky they can fly with little effort.

[@dakineloft3925]

Thank You

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

You're welcome. Happy you liked it.

[@royuntalan6646]

Hello Mr. Frank... do you have a video or link of your feeding system from short to long distance? Also, do you add anything on the water?

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Hello Roy, Please see kzbin.info/www/bejne/pIuXgJSYbc16Z5I Also email me [e-mail] Please watch the video on what I do each day during the season in the water etc. kzbin.info/www/bejne/l33NqqaXhsufna8

[@royuntalan6646]

Thanks you very for Mr. Frank

[@richmondparan2622]

Hi frank, if you load them with the fat seeds on thursday preparing for long distance how much do you giving them? Eat all they want or?

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Yesterday I shipped a 407 mile race and we are expecting head winds the entire course. I gave the race teams all the fat seeds they could eat day of shipping. I did not give them any fat seeds the day before. The pigeons were super light and hopefully have a meal on the truck today and a big performance tomorrow.

[@elgarehali5673]

How are you Laughlin I follow you from Morocco Your way of dealing with runners makes sense to me My question to you is how many days do you start charging pigeons with card mixture in races over 1000km Knowing that most of the races pass in difficult weather (desert). There is a conflict of opinions, what do you say about the point of blood in the pigeon's chest They say it's a sign of readiness

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

I usually feed my long distance pigeons the fat seeds for two days before shipping and they also eat on the truck for one day. So they get to eat what they want for three days if they eat on the truck. Most likely my birds do not eat much on the truck. I do not look at the bubble or anything on the chest. It is not good to open the feathers on the chest of the pigeon before the race. The pigeons needs to weave these feathers in place and do not do this on the truck. I do not think the blood bubble means anything and possibly the birds form has gone by a bit when you see the bubble. I never open the breast feathers.

[@elgarehali5673]

@@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons Thank you very much for your interest as well as for the answer. I agree with you about the failure of fat pigeons to return home, although I have 20 years of experience. Unfortunately, everyone is saturated with the idea of ​​(fattening pigeons) and the problem of removing dandruff.. . Thank you sir for giving us time to explain. Thank you, Professor

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Thank you and I hope you have much success!

[@fromireland]

Hello Frank A lot of fanciers feed their pigeons several supplements for marathon and long distance race. Websites full of these products. After watching Ur videos I am of the the view that pigeon don't need that . Correcte me if I am wrong and also please guide us do u use these supplements for long race. If yes which one . Thanks

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Hello, Most companies want to sell supplements and I am not sure much is needed. If they have a super quality feed and all the minerals possible they should be fine for racing. Here is a link to my supplement program although this year I did not use much and the birds flew great. Maybe being on natural health for years helped my pigeons where someone switching to natural health will need the natural products. Here are my natural products that I use. kzbin.info/www/bejne/l33NqqaXhsufna8

[@marcusmorrow9562]

At what time do you feed them on shipping day ( Thursday). Will they not be sick on the way to the club if they are full of food?

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Hello Marcus, Because I usually give a training toss on Thursday for long distance my bird get fed all they want about 11am. I add more fat seeds around 3pm so hopefully they eat again and drink. Do not worry about the full crop. They will not get sick in the car. On Friday they do not eat much on the truck and best case have a nice drink. Best of luck, Frank

[@mahdiloft-avianracersandbe4589]

Hello Frank. I would like to know the avg temperature of race season you generally race in.

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

We start in April with cold, rain and damp 30 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The long races are in June and we race in high humidity with temperatures from 75 to low 90's Fahrenheit. We have all weather from start to finish. May is perfect pigeon racing weather with temps from 60 to 70 and low humidity.

[@keti7337]

Hi Frank when you say you load them up on Thursday you feed them as much as they can eat or you give them a full spoonful on fat seeds ?

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

When I load them up I give them all they can eat of the fat seeds.

[@keti7337]

@@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons thank you Frank I wasn’t sure how much to give on the day of shipping so now I will load them up I appreciate it

[@gensanwarriors5180]

Hello there,so you fly them 6 hrs a day or total?sorry if it’s a stupid question.

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Hello, The birds should have at least a 6 hour flight on one day a week or two before the distance race. They will not have the endurance to fly all day if they do not fly a steady six hours in one day.

[@billlatka]

Have you ever had any problems with training on the day of shipping? Occasionally I’ve had hawk attacks or other issues on training tosses. Do you see any problems with testing on Monday and Wednesday of the week of a long race that ships on Thursday?

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Hello Bill, You are correct that you take a chance training the day of shipping. You can certainly move the training to Monday and Wednesday to be safe. I sometimes move the training due to weather and the results were still excellent.

[@davebunkerbrierley2434]

Hi Frank my question to you is I fly with some success at 550 miles across the chanel from France into the North East of England getting them on the day. Last year I moved the distance upto 800 miles without my bird's (ones that won from 500 miles) not even returning. I was wondering how you would feed to tackle the 800 miles race? For the 500 miles I feed Energy + for the last week + peanuts, hemp and sunflower hart's before this I feed Super star + Thak you in advance Regards Dave

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Hi Dave, It seems like you would feed the same for 800 miles. It is possible that 800 is just too far for the pigeons. It is a different bird that can go 800 miles. That is so extreme that very few can make it back from 800 miles. Are your bird still buoyant when you feed like you do?

[@davebunkerbrierley2434]

@McLaughlin Lofts Hi Frank The birds that I now have had for the last 5 years are extreme distance marathon family direct from the English Barcelona record holder at 879 miles and direct Scottish marathon family to 775 miles but in reality both these fanciers shared their blood lines so in essence they are one family so I don't think it's the birds. Yes I condition them to be light and corky or buoyant as they say. I have this year introduced 50% barley x 50% breed and wean. I usually just use breed and wean is I to like you think it is under rated. I have been informed that I am mad by the marathon connoisseurs but I've always worked on the principle if you keep doing the same thing you get the same results. That's why you're video caught my eye. I have used barely before in the 70s with cracked maze (chicken feed) that's what it's called here that was upto 400 miles across the chanel. Thank you for your reply I appreciate it and will keep watching as I enjoy listening to you to stimulate the gray matter. Regards Dave

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Keep me posted and let me know what happens. Sounds like you have great pigeons.

[@davebunkerbrierley2434]

@McLaughlin Lofts Hi Frank I hope so but it has taken me 50 years to get them. It's a family thing my dad had them his dad and my great grandfather. Hope you have a great season. You're in Sport Dave

[@fromireland]

Can we give rest 2 or 3 days before basketing for long races? If yes still we feed them barley or oily seed . Thanks

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

I do like them to fly some two days before the race but in some cases I have not done this and still had success. I will feed the barley mix sometimes to the day of basketing if the long race looks fast. I like to feed plenty of fat seeds the day of basketing.

[@fromireland]

Hello Frank. 6 hours in total on wing in one week or in one day? Please

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Birds need to fly six hours on the wing on one flight say from 300 miles two weeks before a long event. Without a sustained six hours on the wing a couple weeks before a long race they will not be able to fly 10 to 12 hours on the wing.

[@kevinali1676]

Hi Frank @McLaughlin Lofts In my country the second leg of thr old bird program on average the birds fly 95 miles of ocean cross country . So to the loft its like 127 miles the 3rd leg they fly 174 miles of ocean a total of 208 to the loft. Now these races on a good day would range from. 3 to 4 hrs do you recommend the same feeding tactics and training as the above video,?

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Hey Kevin, I would feed for short distance in these races. You will have faster speeds with more buoyant light and corky pigeons. Did you see my first feeding video? kzbin.info/www/bejne/pIuXgJSYbc16Z5I

[@kevinali1676]

@@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons much appreciated 🙏

[@abcloft302]

For the YBs Should we measure the feed , 1 oz per bird each day ?? Or should we feed till they full and walk away???

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Once the racing season starts feed once a day until they start to leave barley. They have had enough until the next day. You will do so much better by making this change.

[@abcloft302]

@@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons thank you I never won a race yet In my 2 year career . I hope I can win one soon 🔜 thanks for always replying back . I will implement your tips..

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

@@abcloft302 I bet you win this year following these tips

[@barndawg]

Thank you for sharing

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

My pleasure

[@craig7555]

Hi when you take your birds on a toss do they come back to food in the loft or are they fed before taking them like fed in the morning and toss in the afternoon thanks

[@barndawg]

@@craig7555 when they return from training toss they get fed.

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

I feed when they return from the training.

[@georgeattard5508]

Hi Frank my problem is in Malta, it is only 19 miles long and seven miles wide so there is no way i can get these tosses in that you say. IF I force fly the birds will that help me.

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

You must do what works for your area and schedule. Force them to fly around the lofts on Tuesday and Thursday if you need to. You can flag fly them if you have time

[@TungNguyen-mu9ee]

Even during the racing season, you feed them only one a day?

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

You must feed once a day during the racing season. 90% will overfeed if they feed twice a day. Check out my feeding series of videos. You will enjoy kzbin.info/aero/PLfjpm1Kc9E0UkXcdnfTrnV_VKTkfNozbt

[@kevinali1676]

What's you take on the fact on the birds not eating the day of transportation say Friday.?

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

My thoughts are that I want them to eat a little and drink. Not over eat on the truck. That is why it is best to feed heavy the day before they are on the truck. Best case they eat some and drink plenty but not sure if that happens or not.

[@user-jj3mb2qs6k]

Very good in Polen

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Happy you like it!

[@majorcastillo211]

what about the water intake of the pigeons sir?

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

This is what I do during the week. kzbin.info/www/bejne/l33NqqaXhsufna8 Hope it helps

[@majorcastillo211]

@@FrankMcLaughlinPigeonshuge thanks sir McLaughlin, is it available all day? ( water), sorry sir im just a beginner, have a great day sir and more winnings,,, and what about the breeders sir, do you keep the feeds and water available all day>? or do you treat them just like your flyers feeding them also once a day? thanks

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

I keep feeders full of grain and pellets in front of my breeders at all times. Breeders need to be able to eat and feed the babies. My race team is not breeding so I can control the feed. My birds always have water in front of them so they can drink as they like.

[@majorcastillo211]

@@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons huge huge huge huge thanks sir Mc, i really appreciate you, you're really a big help for me as a newbie,, more power to your channel and more and more winnings...God bless...

[@micolecastro1849]

How much distance till the pigeons use stored fat?

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

This is tough to say. No good studies have been done on this. A pigeon can fly many hours on a small amount of fat. They are remarkable animals.

[@vieraloft5337]

When you said 80% barley is just barley or 80% of depurative ?

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

I feed 80% barley and 20% Champion and if I cannot get barley I use Depure from Versele Laga. kzbin.info/aero/PLfjpm1Kc9E0UkXcdnfTrnV_VKTkfNozbt

[@ukaszbiel1070]

Waiting for inf about young pigeons but I assume that there will be no difference.

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Hello Lukasz, Very similar feeding to the Master Feeding and you Master Racing Video. Some new thoughts during the molt and after a big workout.

[@boyapoy886]

👏👏👏

[@mohammedbennani8782]

Thank you for sharing your experience and the way to deal with racing pigeons. If it was possible, I would need a special program for speed and medium racing. Thank you very much, your follower from Morocco.

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Here it is. You will find my other feeding videos. Happy you liked it. kzbin.info/aero/PLfjpm1Kc9E0UkXcdnfTrnV_VKTkfNozbt

[@mohammedbennani8782]

@@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons thank you very much

[@sumodvs17]

❤❤

[@postduiven1980]

Hi Frank, 80 percent barley , ok , what's your choice for the other 20 % ? Greetz Eelco

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

The other 20% is the a 16 % protein mix what many call European Mix. I use Versele Laga Champion mix as the other 20%

[@Rocky-d7t1q]

Talk a good game,how much money the birds won😊

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

Very little money to win in combine and club racing. We have some pick bird pools and calcutta.

[@brucecarey1780]

The process to prepare pigeons correctly for succesful long distance racing is way more complicated than just feeding, training and rest im afraid. ! First of all you have to identify the pigeons that will be capable to do well on these longer races. Not all birds are able to do that. Candidates selected to compete in the couple of long distance races in any organization need to be only lightly raced in the first part of the season.! In any case they must also be correclty conditioned before hand to be able to stay on the wing for long periods of time. This entails superior health, correct feeding and regulated road training and enough rest to build up the endurance that will be required. The liver is the major key to achieving just that. If the pigeons dont carry a certain amount of internal fat reserves doing well in these races will not be possible.! The reserves gained from feeding oily seeds high in carbohidrates for one or two meals and the the reserves stored in the breast muscles will not be enough to stay on the wing for 8 hours plus. Period.! These reserves may only last for a maximum of 5 hours on the wing at the most. There after the liver will have to start converting internal body fats into fuel on an ongoing process for energy for the muscles to keep functioming optimally. If these reserves run out the birds will not be able to keep on flying and they will go down to rest.

[@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons]

There is certainly an art form to get them right. If someone has good quality healthy pigeons that have raced several races with one being 6 hours on the wing they can have success balancing body weight with energy needs. Nearly everyone at all distances ships their pigeons way too heavy to the races. My system works for races where winners that finish on the day.

[@brucecarey1780]

@@FrankMcLaughlinPigeons It is a natural tendency to treat pigeons like a motor car when sending them to long distance races.😅 They assume the tank must be filled to make the journey.! It is most definatly amazing how far a bird can fly or remain on the wing with very very little muscle, liver and body fat reserves. Thanks for replying. Regards.

[@johnjacobs3502]

.......

[@racingpigeonskpkpeshawar6163]

Thanks ❤