Major-ret
2 posts
Jul 15, 2005
7:03 PM
|
First of all I would like to thank Tony for this message board and all of you that have discussed various topics on Rollers. I am a newbee (had rollers in early high school about 35 years ago until a cat entered the coup) and the topics discussed have really helped pave the way to get started. I recently purchased 4 breeder pairs from a quality family and already have 3 - 8 day old squabs to start my kit. I know I have time before actually flying these but I have a question. My job requires me to be away from home for 2-3 days at a time. I could use some help/suggestions in figuring out how to train/fly/feed the kit as it develops. How best to feed while away (I don't have anyone available to help out) and then come home and ready them to fly. Kind-of got abit wordy so I'll end. Thanks - Help!
|
MCCORMICKLOFTS
78 posts
Jul 15, 2005
10:13 PM
|
Major, welcome back to rollers. I would wonder if your away days are like once a week or every now and then? One thing that is solidly for certain is that you will naturally figure out a routine that works for you given the situations that arise. When they are real young I would just fill up a large feeder for them and let them have as much as they wanted while I was gone. Of course always make sure they have extra water too. When they have become a kit that are doing what rollers do best, I think I would feed them well before leaving, then add a container with another day's ration in it. Three days really isn't much if they have been fed well. And that way when you return they will be hungry and you will be able to control them. I have several friends who take one of those dome top plastic waterers and cut about 1/2 inch off of the bottom of the base where the water comes out .They fill this with the amount of feed they choose. The birds can eat as they please which will most likely be consumed in it's entirety by the second day. The third day they will act hungry, but if you release them, I bet you they fly for quite some time. Try some different things out and don't be afraid that your birds will starve if they miss a day of feeding.
Brian.
|
rollerpigeon
Site Moderator
326 posts
Jul 16, 2005
10:54 PM
|
Hello Major, Welcome, I am glad you are finding the site and the discussion posts helpful.
It is difficult for me to imagine your kit performing the same as a kit that is receiving daily training. Of course you probably already know this and its not stopping you from enjoying your rollers.
I just want to say that if the birds are too hungry when you let them out, they may not take to training well. On the other hand, if they have too much food, they will get fat and lazy.
My suggestion is that you provide just enough food and water to last the 2-3 days. Try to have them just hungry enough so that you have control and can call them in when you let them out.
Keep track of the amount of food you give them and observe their behaviour upon release after your trip. Either add more or take some away and record the new food amount. Make adjustments until they fly the required time.
After a few times of doing this, you should know precisley how much food and water to leave in the kit box so they perform in a manner you expect upon your return.
----------
FLY ON! Tony Chavarria
|
Major-ret
3 posts
Jul 19, 2005
11:35 AM
|
Thank you both for the great advice. I'll keep you posted it's not an ideal situation but it's only 2-3 days per week! Steve
|