Main Pigeon Fairs in Romania
- FCI Romania Autumn Fair — usually held in October–November
- Regional exhibitions — organised by county clubs, schedule varies
- Informal meetings — organised via Facebook groups, especially in spring
- Agricultural fairs — some have a racing pigeon section
Tip: Follow the Facebook groups of regional associations for fair announcements. The schedule changes from year to year.
How to Prepare as a Seller
- Bring a maximum of 5–8 selected birds, not your entire loft
- Clean baskets, labelled with price and key information
- Pedigrees to hand in transparent sleeves
- Recent health tests (max 30 days old)
- Written price list — avoid chaotic negotiations
How to Prepare as a Buyer
- Go with a clear list — what you are looking for and how much you are willing to pay
- Take a sanitised transport basket
- Do not buy from the first seller — do a full tour first
- Prepare the quarantine space at home before you leave
Warning: Fairs are the main place for disease spread (PMV, salmonella). Strict post-fair hygiene is mandatory for all purchased birds.
Negotiating at the Fair
- The displayed price is the starting point, not the final price — negotiation is normal
- Do not negotiate below 80% of the asking price — it is offensive and ineffective
- Buying several birds from the same seller justifies a discount
- If you cannot agree on a price, leave politely — do not burn bridges
Common Mistakes
- Impulse buying due to the fair atmosphere
- Mixing newly bought birds with the loft at home (no quarantine)
- Forgetting the transport basket — a purchased bird does not go in your pocket
- Ignoring visible signs of illness from a distance
Concrete Action Steps
- Check the FCI exhibition calendar at the start of each year
- Prepare a transport kit: basket + water + quarantine ready at home
- Photograph the bird and pedigree on the spot before paying
- Preventive treatment on day one after arriving home