Easy Methods to Tame Pigeons

Contented Birds

• Happy, healthy pigeons are much easier to tame than overly stressed or ill birds. Pigeons are social animals. They often congregate and travel in flocks so, to ensure they're content, don't try to keep only one pigeon. Make sure the birds have comfortable housing. Ensure the pigeon loft is well-ventilated and allows in some natural sunlight, preferably in the morning. Offer the birds quality food daily and provide fresh water at all times.

Proper Handling

• Pigeons are easier to tame if always handled gently, respectfully and only when necessary. With the palm facing up, slide the right hand under the bird's left side. Allow the pigeon's legs to slide between the index and second fingers. Hold the bird's legs between these fingers. Gently close the rest of the hand around the bird, keeping the wings folded against the body. The left hand is able to be used to cradle the front of the bird.

Food

• One of the easiest methods for taming pigeons is the use of food. While taming pigeons, make sure they only eat when you're around to provide food. At feeding time, sit or stand close to the birds and throw down the pigeon feed. This forces the pigeons to come close to you to eat. Speak, coo or sing gently to the birds while they're eating. The pigeons quickly get used to being close to people. Eventually, the birds become tame enough to be hand-fed.

Presence

• Spend as much time as possible with the birds, and move slowly and speak gently while around them. Visit the birds every day. After a week or two of hand-feeding, the pigeons are likely to become tame enough to sit on your shoe, or even climb your leg to rest on your lap after they've eaten.