Young Bird Training in August
- Distances increased progressively: 50 → 100 → 150 km
- Training in the direction of the autumn races
- At least 2–3 training sessions per week
- First group basketing with multiple fanciers
Young Bird Selection
- Drop youngsters that do not return or consistently return last
- Note return times for each youngster individually
- Youngsters that fly well individually but poorly in a group may be an issue
- Evaluate temperament: nervous birds and those that do not train enough — out
In brief: From 10 spring youngsters, realistically 4–5 reach the first race. 2–3 have a good season. This is the normal rate — it is not failure.
Adults in August
- Moult is almost complete — new primary feathers are nearly full
- First daily free exercise sessions for readaptation to flight
- Do not send adults to races in August — moult is not finished
Feeding in August
- Active youngsters: energy-rich feed — maize, wheat 50%
- Adults still moulting: proteins + amino acids continue
- Separate youngster and adult feeding if possible
Health in August
- Preventive tricho treatment before the first autumn races
- Check for cocci — early autumn is coccidiosis season
- PMV vaccination for youngsters if not done in July
Tip: Train youngsters separately from adults for at least the first 3 group training sessions. Experienced adults fly much faster and youngsters cannot keep up — they get lost.
Common Mistakes
- Too few training sessions in August — youngsters lose condition rapidly
- Mixing youngsters with adults in early training
- Neglecting PMV vaccination — major risk at first contact with birds from other lofts
Concrete Action Steps
- Week 1–2: youngster training 50–100 km
- Week 3: preventive tricho treatment
- Week 3–4: training 100–200 km + PMV vaccination if missing
- End of month: final youngster team selection for races