As we enter a period of exceptionally warm weather, I would like to remind all members, clubs and race officials that the welfare of our pigeons must remain our foremost consideration.

Heat stress can affect birds both during transportation and while racing, particularly when elevated temperatures are combined with high humidity, poor air movement, or extended periods in baskets.

Accordingly, I encourage all race organisers and officials to exercise heightened caution whenever temperatures are forecast to approach or exceed 30°C, or where a combination of heat, humidity and other environmental factors may present a welfare risk.

Key considerations should include:

• Careful assessment of weather conditions at the liberation site and throughout the line of flight.
• Early morning liberations, wherever practical, to allow birds to fly in the coolest part of the day.
• Close attention to transport conditions, including adequate ventilation and unrestricted access to water.
• Appropriate basket densities to minimise heat build-up during transportation and holding.
• Consideration of shortening, postponing or cancelling races where conditions present an unacceptable welfare risk.
• Recognition that young birds and pigeons undertaking more demanding races may be particularly vulnerable during periods of extreme heat.

While racing pigeons are remarkable athletes capable of performing in a wide range of conditions, no race result is more important than the health and welfare of the birds entrusted to our care.

I therefore ask all members, officials and convoying teams to place welfare at the centre of every decision made during periods of high temperature. No single weather factor should be considered in isolation and, where there is genuine doubt regarding the suitability of conditions, caution should prevail. The reputation of our sport depends not only on successful competition, but also on demonstrating the highest standards of welfare and responsibility.

Please remember to inform our Racing Support team of any alterations to your race programme, including changes to liberation times, race points, postponements or cancellations. Timely communication will help ensure that members remain informed and that appropriate support can be provided where required.

By working together and exercising sound judgement, we can continue to promote responsible racing while protecting the welfare of our pigeons and maintaining public confidence in our sport.

Chris Sutton
CEO