Baby Pigeons, 25% survival rate

[crewzm]

I havn't had much luck with my newly hatch birds. I have 7 adult pigeons and of those I have two breeding pair. The first pair laid two eggs but hatched only one. This one is my only survivor and seems to be doing well at about 2 weeks old. My second breeding pair laid 2 eggs a week to 10 days after the first pair laid eggs. These eggs hatch 2 days ago. I went out this morning and both of the newly hatched pigeons were dead. We did have a freeze last night with air temps getting down to 25 degrees or so. I dont know if this played a role or if it was just poor parenting. All my pigeons are young birds with this being the first time they are raising young. Is this a normal survival rate for first time parents? Any tips or suggestions on how to boost survival rates?

Mike

[crewzm]

OOPS I ment to post this in General Chat

[topher40]

Poor egg growth before laying can contribute to this. Get some calcium in their diet, crushed oyster shell is a good way to do this. Feed can also be a factor, plus young adult birds, and fertility of the eggs can lead to unhatched eggs.

[topher40]

I moved the thread over to General Chat for you.

[midwestfisherman]

25% survival rate is low. You want to be sure to feed a good quality pigeon mix. Make sure there is crushed oyster shell available. Also make sure you have grit available for the young ones at all times. Be sure to never feed cracked corn.

[Fran Seagren]

I have a couple young pigeons that have recently laid a couple eggs. Even though we feed them various feed, we have also been feeding cracked corn. Being new to raising pigeons, can you tell me why corn is bad? Thanks!