It is extremely important to ensure that your birds have an outstanding moult in order to be competitive in any competition - The feathers make the bird - or obviously break it. I know that this is a controversial statement however I can categorically state that the same "champion bird" who respectively had a good or bad/average moult will outperform in the event of a good moult.

1. If you are experiencing a very dry period during the moult you should supply the birds with additional supplements.
2. As a rule I (always during the moult) supply linseed at one tablespoon per kilogram food daily and also propose additional sunflower and even turnip seed - as natural as possible.
3. Furthermore I add an oil-based supplement containing primrose oil, wheat germ oil, lecithin and polysorbate 80 twice a week - I prefer mixing the oil with dry seed.
4. Greens are essential - provides minerals, vitamins etc./ I like a soft epsom -or krusschen salt mixture in the drinker once a month. / Don't forget the grit and pick stone. /and garlic, garlic and even some more (weekly) - avoid ailments.
5. Along with the oil-based additive I believe in a vitamin B complex in the drinker - amino acids are obviously always welcome.
6. Don't treat your birds with any chemicals / antibiotics during the moult - unless it is absolutely necessary. Chemicals generally have an adverse effect on your birds and you will easily note this in the moult should you have treated. As a matter of fact I don't even inoculate during the moult.
7. A lukewarm bath a week (as always) won't harm your birds - Once you note dropping of down feathers all over the show the moult is running smoothly.
8. I am aware that many of my fellow pigeon fanciers lock their loft's doors during the moult and even darken the loft - I am not a believer in this method, even though their might be benefits in doing this - My birds enjoy an open loft on a daily basis, fly around the loft if they feel like it and are sun worshippers. I normally start the flying season by scooping a couple of high positions in both the club and organisation - I assume that this is based on the fact that my birds are happy, had a good moult and for apparent reasons fit and healthy. Would you fly back to a prison in good time……?

Whatever method you use I can almost guarantee that with a little extra effort during the moult you will have enhanced performance come competition time.

Good luck and do not hesitate to mail me should you have any questions, comments or input.

Kind regards