In recent years, we have increasingly heard complaints from pigeon enthusiasts that birds of prey and martens are becoming a real plague. For some, the problem is so severe that they are considering quitting the sport of pigeon racing and giving up their passion. Stories frequently echo in pigeon clubs about the impact of predators: good pigeons are being grabbed, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to build a successful breeding program. It greatly shakes the morale of many enthusiasts.
Last Saturday evening, the enthusiasts gathered as usual at the club to clock their pigeons and tally the results. But that evening, there was sad news: Victor Valvekens had unwanted visitors in his loft. A marten had struck at his breeding loft, killing all the breeding pigeons present. One pigeon was even taken away by the predator.
Victor Valvekens has had to reduce his pigeon stock in recent years due to health problems. Nevertheless, he remains a dedicated enthusiast who performs excellently, especially in the sprint races. Despite his limited number of pigeons, he manages to achieve strong results time and again. This weekend, his performance was again outstanding: his pigeons achieve a high prize percentage, and that has been the case all season long.
However, the loss of his breeding pigeons is a heavy blow for Victor. For him, his pigeons are a true passion, and the results he achieves are a source of pride. The fact that a marten has now left such a large void in his breeding loft further demonstrates the significant challenges pigeon enthusiasts face today.
It is becoming increasingly clear that pigeon enthusiasts must design their lofts in such a way that unwanted visits from martens and other animals become impossible. Even the smallest opening is enough for these predators to strike at the lofts. Martens not only cause damage to pigeon lofts but also to attics, cars, and other places. As previously described in the article, these animals constitute a real plague.
Although certain groups take pride in the reintroduction of these animals in various regions, the devastation they cause often remains outside their field of vision. The suffering that results from this is all too familiar to pigeon enthusiasts. We hope that enthusiasts do not let these setbacks discourage them, but it is clear that urgent measures are needed to effectively address the plagues of birds of prey, martens, rats, and other unwanted guests.
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