The title pretty much sums it up. Today was the first release for “loft flying” and I’m down six birds. I do have a lot to be thankful for. I was originally down 8 birds, but two came home. Also, one of my birds is definitely in the ‘hood. I’ve seen it on several nearby roofs. I think I've seen another also. There’s still hope it will come home tonight. Chances are good that half of the others will come home tonight or tomorrow, so that would leave me down just 3 birds.
Of course, I have no idea where I went wrong. Were they not “hungry” enough? Apparently overfeeding is the leading cause of losing birds. According to my measurements, they aren’t overfed, but my measurements are an average. I suppose the ones that stayed out when I called them in might be the ones who overeat Should I have invested in an official "feeding whistle" instead of trusting my own whistling capabilities? Maybe they got spooked? All of my animals are locked up, but you really never know. It’s such a challenge getting inside the head of these birds.
I recently picked up the rest of my order + some to bring my total this a.m. to 35 birds. (This p.m. 29 birds and hoping) 17 of my birds are about 3 weeks younger than the other 18 (now 12 and hoping).
This is how the initial release went. I opened the landing board for the 18 oldest birds today. 6 of them wouldn’t get off the board. 2 of them wouldn’t even go out on the board, they stayed in the loft instead. 10 of them went for short flights, and 4 of those came in when called. That’s not very encouraging. I guess the ones that didn’t leave are going to stick around better, but I’m really praying that the 6 that are out cavorting will come home also.
I took some video of my birds flying and will post it soon. I’m still learning and all the websites say this is normal and most will come home. I’ll keep you posted. Keep my business in your prayers. So far it's taking off, but I'd like it to land for a while.
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3 comments:
I ran home between special services at church to find two birds walking around on the roof of the loft and trying to figure out how to get in. Got 'em. 4 to go.
Two more birds were sitting on top of the loft this morning wondering how to get in. I coaxed them in and now am only missing two. One has been seen flying around with a feral pigeon. The other is flying solo around the 'hood. I'm actually amazed that 6 have made it back so far - thrilled too!
Your birds are beautiful when they are flying. Sure hope all of them will come back. Good to talk with you today......Mom
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