Leroy

try any local bird supplier/pet shops, I used to see them quite a lot, or check the internet for local magicians clubs, I believe it's javas that are used in magic shows

tell me about it, i spend so much time on pigeon forums, she insisted on looking for shoe forums all night on saturday. No forums but loads of shoe websites - sad haha !!!

Thanks for the advice guys. I have no plans to race yet, just keeping for pleasure for now, as I have such little space. I also have to compromise with the missus - more birds or a bigger loft is likely to mean more shoes... ;D

I could do with a bit of advice and or opinions please, sorry if i go on a bit; Im new to keeping racing pigeons having kept fancies for years, and have started with some whites bought from a couple of members on PB (thanks again Paul and Paul) After having a bad start - dog got into loft and killed two plus my modenas - I am due to get 4 new young birds within the next month. The current birds are now well settled in a 6x4 loft/shed with 7x5 aviary attached to which they always have access. But I was hoping to settle the YB seperately to train them and allow them out. Due to limited space my intention is to build what would be a large cote/hutch about 4ft x 3ft but only 2ft tall, and have it built on legs so I can still use the space underneath. I would attach a sputnik type trap to allow the birds constant access to outside and to see around prior to release, and I have a training programme all worked out in theory, and it will be partly made from perspex to allow plenty of light inside. My questions are these: Does anyone see any problems getting the birds to home to a large box rather than a loft? Would it be OK to house them with a hen fantail that does fly out and come straight back? Can YB be trained to be hungry so they return promptly or do they need constant access to food because they are still growing? What age should I get them and how long before they become strong enough to fly? sorry to be a complete novice - any advice gratefully received!!! Lee

"also a mr parker in liverpools got some cracking camiel cardons" gangster, do you have any contact details for him please? Lee

pm sent

whereabouts are you? I have a lonely fantail... Lee

this is an example of why pigeon basics is such a good forum for newcomers like me - the information and tips that other members can provide are superb!!! Lee

I've done exactly the same thing - twice! If you only have the hacksaw....score along the line you need to saw, then saw each bump in the sheet individually from one side, then when done, turn it over and do the same again making sure you line up the cuts made from the reverse. It's fiddly and takes a while but it can be done

sorry mark, it's like losing a part of your family regards Lee

Can I say a big thankyou to The White Rapido Man and Tsykes for two very smooth bird transactions. I now have some great stock to get me started, one pair already on eggs! You have both been more than helpful - even if amtrak haven't!!!! Thanks again to both of you, the birds are a credit to you (well, to me now!) Lee

me too please, one pair Lee

Hi guys, new member here! I've kept fancy pigeons (and a couple of non-racing racers) since I was about 14yrs old, erm...15yrs ago J*sus doesnt time fly....anyway, now only have a couple of pairs of garden fantails and one pair of modenas due to very limited space and time, but hoping to move house within next 12 months and expand again into the hobby, possibly try a few breeds ive never had before. I dont have much interest in showing, just keeping,breeding and letting them fly!!! Great forum, and great advice so far - thanks Lee