CODE OF PRACTICE

PIGEON KEEPING AND COMPETITIONS IN AUSTRALIA

 

Prepared by: Australian Pigeon Council Ltd (APCL)

Public-facing welfare and conduct framework

 

 

Accepted 18/10/2025

 

 

Introduction

This Code of Practice has been prepared by the Australian Pigeon Council Ltd (APCL) to support pigeon keepers, pigeon fanciers and related organisations to meet practical welfare expectations consistent with recognised Australian standards and guidelines, including those produced by Animal Health Australia (AHA).

Animal Health Australia is a national body that publishes standards and guidelines for the welfare and management of livestock species, including poultry and birds. This Code is designed to help ensure those pigeon relevant standards are understood and applied in real world conditions across Australia.

The main effect of this Code is simple and firm: the welfare of pigeons is the highest priority in all activities connected with pigeon keeping and competitions.

Although APCL has produced this Code, the primary responsibility for meeting these standards rests with the pigeon keeper or handler. This Code should be treated as a minimum baseline that all pigeon keepers are expected to meet.

Because pigeon keeping varies across Australia (climate, geography, travel distance, access to services, predators, local laws and property size), some topics, such as release protocols, vaccination approaches, and longer distance competition formats, may require supplementary local protocols. Any supplementary protocol must add protection and must not lower the minimum standards in this Code.

This Code also refers to the Federal publication: 'Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for Poultry 2017' (Animal Health Australia). All pigeon keepers are expected to comply with sections that apply to pigeons.

This Code also recognises inclusivity: APCL encourages participation by people from all economic backgrounds, including those in remote or rural locations and those who are elderly or living with disability. The rules below focus on outcomes (clean, safe, humane) rather than expensive facilities.

The main issues the Code will focus on are:
1. Welfare of Pigeons and Duty of Care
2. Housing and Feeding
3. Exercise and Training Pigeons
4. Releasing of Pigeons and Competition
5. Governance and Other Issues

 

 

 

 

Table of Contents

  • 1.0   Welfare of Pigeons and Duty of Care
  • 1.1   ill Treatment & Neglect
  • 1.2   Handling Pigeons
  • 1.3   Vaccinations and Medications
  • 1.4   Health & Well Being
  • 1.5   Stealing, Injury, Killing of Pigeons
  • 2.0   Housing and Feeding
  • 2.1   Pigeon Loft Construction
  • 2.2   Ventilation
  • 2.3   Flooring
  • 2.4   Insulation
  • 2.5   Loft Cleaning
  • 2.6   The Competition Loft
  • 2.6.1   Competition Loft - Minimum Space per Pigeon
  • 2.6.2   Perches
  • 2.7       The Breeding Loft
  • 2.7.1   Stock Loft - Minimum Space per Pigeon
  • 2.7.2   Breeding Pairs
  • 2.7.3   Youngsters
  • 2.8   Feeding & Watering Pigeons
  • 2.8.1   Feeding and Watering at the home loft
  • 2.8.2   Feeding and Watering in the Competition Crates
  • 2.8.3   Feeding and Watering En-Route
  • 3.0   Exercise and Training Pigeons
  • 3.1   Free Flight
  • 3.2   Non Flight Times
  • 4.0   Releasing of Pigeons and Competition
  • 4.1   Fit for Competition
  • 4.2   Stewards
  • 4.3   Inspection of Pigeons
  • 4.4   Clashes on the line of Flight
  • 4.5   Competition Controls
  • 4.6   Liberation
  • 4.7   Weather Hold-Overs
  • 4.8   Carriage of Pigeons
  • 4.8.1   Competition Panniers
  • 4.8.2   Water and Feed
  • 5.0   Governance and Other Issues
  • 5.1   Performance Enhancing Drugs
  • 5.1.1   Random Drug Testing
  • 5.2   Airports
  • 5.3   Imported Pigeons
  • 5.4   Breach of Code
  • 5.5   Stray Pigeon Management
  • 5.6   Pigeon Identification - Life Ring
  • 5.7   Neighbours
  • 5.8   Local Council Laws
  • 5.9   Social Media
  • Appendix: Animal Health Australia Standards and Guidelines
  • Policy Statement - Code of Conduct and Ethics
  • Government Checks
  • Glossary of Terms

 

 

WELFARE OF PIGEONS AND DUTY OF CARE

1.0

Rule (Authority Statement): The owner or handler who has care or control of a pigeon/s must take all reasonable steps to protect the pigeon's welfare. The pigeon's welfare is the first priority in all pigeon keeping and competition activities.

This section is supported by Animal Health Australia "Standards (must do)" which apply to pigeon handling, breeding safety, weaning, perches and weather safety.

Plain explanation (simple): If you keep pigeons, you must look after them properly every day. Nothing is more important than the pigeon being safe and well.

1.1 ill Treatment & Neglect

Ill treatment includes actions such as harming, injuring, abusing, frightening, tormenting or causing pigeons unnecessary pain or suffering. Neglect includes failing to provide enough food, clean water, shelter or allowing pigeons to become dehydrated or starved.

Neglect also includes (without limitation): keeping pigeons in dirty, wet, or smelly conditions that harm health; allowing overcrowding that causes bullying, injury, or stress; not treating sick or injured pigeons promptly; forcing pigeons to fly, train, be transported, or compete when they are unwell, injured or exhausted.

Plain explanation: Do not hurt pigeons. Do not ignore their needs. Do not leave them thirsty, hungry, unsafe, or sick. 

1.2 Handling Pigeons

Pigeons must be handled carefully and competently. A safe method is to cup the pigeon in one hand to support it, with the feet controlled gently between the handler's fingers of the other hand. Pigeons should not be handled roughly or held by the head, neck or wings.

Plain explanation: Hold pigeons gently around the body, Never grab them by parts that can break or hurt.

AHA Standard (must do): SB11.2 A person must not lift or carry pigeons by the head, legs, neck, wings, feathers or tail feathers unless otherwise supported by the breast.

1.3 Vaccinations and Medications

Where pigeons need protection against an identified pigeon virus outbreak, pigeons should be vaccinated using a recognised vaccine (where available) at the dosage recommended by the manufacturer. Vaccination requirements may differ between states and regions. The owner or handler must comply with lawful requirements and correct dosing. Medications should be administered as directed and should not be overly used to cause harm to the pigeons immune systems and cause them to be susceptible to illness.

Plain explanation: If there is a known pigeon sickness and a proper vaccine exists, protect pigeons using it the correct way.

Remote/rural fairness note: Where professional services are limited, keepers must still take reasonable steps such as early isolation of sick birds, hygiene upgrades and seeking professional advice by phone/telehealth where possible.

1.4 Health & Well Being

Pigeon health must be checked regularly. If necessary, veterinary advice should be obtained for treatment and prevention of disease and for control of internal and external parasites and pests.

Pigeons that are sick or injured must not be forced into any activity that risks suffering, including long exercise, transport or competition entry.

Plain explanation: Check pigeons often. If something looks wrong, get help and act quickly.

1.5 Stealing, Injury, Killing of Pigeons

APCL recognises and supports the South Australian Summary Offences Act as a clear precedent for protection of homing pigeons:

SUMMARY OFFENCES ACT 1953 - SECT 47

47-Interference with homing pigeons

(1) A person who-

(a) without lawful authority, kills, injures or takes any homing pigeon; or

(b) enters upon any land for the purpose of killing, injuring or taking any homing pigeon without lawful authority, is guilty of an offence. Maximum penalty: $250.

(2) Upon the conviction of a person for an offence against subsection (1), the court may order the convicted person to pay to the owner of the pigeon killed, injured or taken in contravention of that subsection a sum equal to the value of that pigeon.

(3) It is a defence to a charge of killing, injuring or taking a homing pigeon contrary to subsection (1) to prove that the defendant was the owner or occupier of improved or cultivated land, or a person acting under the instructions of any such owner or occupier, and killed, injured or took the pigeon while it was actually upon that land or any building on that land.

(4) In this section-

"homing pigeon" means a pigeon having a ring affixed or attached to either or both legs;

"take" includes to ensnare or catch.

Because laws vary by state, keepers should also be familiar with relevant state legislation and local enforcement pathways.

Plain explanation: It is against the law in some places to harm or steal homing pigeons. If someone harms your pigeon, laws may allow penalties and compensation.

2.0 Housing and Feeding

2.1 Pigeon Loft Construction

Pigeons are usually kept in buildings known as lofts. Lofts can be many shapes and sizes depending on the keeper's situation, including smaller residential properties or larger rural properties. Lofts must keep pigeons safe from predators and protected from weather. A dry loft is essential.

Loft planning must take account of local council rules relating to building and health. Lofts do not need to be expensive, but must be built and maintained responsibly and in a way that supports positive community perceptions.

A loft is not acceptable if it stays wet or damp for extended periods; has visible mould; smells strongly of ammonia (sharp, burning smell); attracts flies or vermin due to poor hygiene; or has sharp edges or hazards that injure pigeons.

The APCL encourages low-cost designs that are still clean and safe, including designs that are easier to clean for elderly or disabled keepers (bare floors, scrape boards, accessible drinkers). Lofts should be designed not only with the keeper in mind but for the benefit of the pigeons, pigeons love dark lofts of which they hide and feel safe.

Plain explanation: A loft is a safe pigeon home. It must keep pigeons dry, safe and protected.

2.2 Ventilation

Ventilation must provide fresh air into the loft and allow stale air to exit to maintain dryness and comfort.

Plain explanation: Fresh air keeps pigeons' lungs healthy and keeps the loft from becoming damp and smelly.

2.3 Flooring

Off ground construction is preferred, with a minimum floor clearance of 20cm to allow air flow underneath. As an alternative, on ground concrete flooring with a moisture barrier underneath is acceptable. Mesh flooring may also be used. Lofts with bare earth floors should be managed by adding clean soil or sand regularly.

Plain explanation: The floor must stay clean and dry. Different floors are allowed, but the outcome must be safe and hygienic.

2.4 Insulation

Insulation is recommended, especially under metal roofing to reduce condensation and dampness.

Plain explanation: Insulation helps stop water dripping inside and helps pigeons stay comfortable.

2.5 Loft Cleaning

Lofts (including floors) must be cleaned at least once per week. Deep litter may be used if kept dry.

Cleaning should happen more often than weekly if hot weather increases smell or flies; more pigeons are present; droppings build up quickly; or dampness appears.

Plain explanation: Droppings build up quickly. Cleaning stops illness and bad smells.

2.6 The Competition Loft

Pigeons intended for competitions must be housed, fed, exercised and trained properly to maintain good health and peak fitness. Pigeons in competition lofts are expected to be released regularly and therefore can be accommodated differently to breeding lofts.

Plain explanation: Pigeons that do competitions need consistent care and fitness. Their housing must support health, not stress.

2.6.1 Competition Loft - Minimum Space per Pigeon

Where all space is for pigeons only (not people, tools, passageways, trapping or feeding centres), minimum space is 0.092m3 per pigeon. Example: 1.8m deep x 2.1m long x 1.8m high loft can hold 74 pigeons.

Even if a loft meets the number calculation, it is overcrowded if pigeons fight constantly for perches; cannot all perch comfortably; or cannot access food or water without bullying (outside of normal feeding times).

Plain explanation: Each pigeon needs enough room to move and rest.

2.6.2 Perches

Perches may be different styles, but there should be at least 10% more perches than pigeons and at different heights. It is also a good idea to have some perches that are flat and some that are round whereby the pigeons can wrap their toes around the perch, this helps stopping the toes from splaying sideways from continual standing on flat surfaces. Perches can have varying surfaces, e.g. flat and round, this enables the pigeons to ensure their toes are not affected by standing on flat surfaces all the time.

AHA Standard (must do): SB11.4 A person in charge must ensure that at all times there are more perches available in the loft than resident pigeons.

Plain explanation: Extra perches stop bullying and stress.

2.7 The Breeding Loft

The breeding loft houses breeding pigeons. Because breeding birds may not be free flown, they require more space and careful conditions. Access to an aviary is encouraged for sunlight, fresh air and safe exposure to outside conditions.

Plain explanation: Breeding birds need extra space and calm conditions.

2.7.1 Stock Loft - Minimum Space per Pigeon

Minimum breeding loft space is two and a half times the competition loft allowance: 0.23m3 per pigeon (excluding nesting areas). Example: 1.8m x 2.1m x 1.8m loft can hold 30 stock birds.

Plain explanation: Breeding birds need more room because they move less and must stay healthier for longer.

2.7.2 Breeding Pairs

Breeding pairs must have a suitable nesting box and nest bowl lined with suitable material. The nest area is additional to minimum space. A refuge may be needed so a hen can escape an aggressive cock. Single breeding pens should be at least L60cm x H60cm x D40cm. It should be noted that pigeons although maybe given a very nice breeding area/box, they can sometimes seek other locations and can try to nest in corners or the floor.

AHA Standard (must do): SB11.1 A person in charge must ensure every effort is made to avoid aggression towards both hen birds and immature nestlings by appropriate selection of breeding stock and appropriate housing.

Plain explanation: Breeding must be safe. No pigeon, hen or baby bird should be hurt because the setup is wrong.

2.7.3 Youngsters

Young pigeons must not be weaned before they can feed and drink on their own. Youngsters should be fully feathered under the wings before weaning.

AHA Standard (must do): SB11.3 A person in charge must ensure pigeons are not weaned before they can feed and drink independently.

Plain explanation: Do not separate babies from parents too early. They must be ready.

2.8 Feeding & Watering Pigeons

2.8.1 Feeding and Watering at the home loft

There are many successful feeding methods and this Code does not suggest just one method. However, pigeons must receive enough nutrients every day to maintain health and fitness. Clean water must be available at all times. Water must be changed daily and more often in summer, especially for breeding birds. Minerals and grits should also be provided to the pigeons to assist with nutritional needs.

Plain explanation: Feed pigeons every day. Give them clean water all the time.

2.8.2 Feeding and Watering in the Competition Crates

Pigeons placed in crates the night before an early next day release must be provided water before release. Feed is not to be provided in that short overnight scenario. If pigeons are held beyond the next day, feed and water must be provided on the days before release.

Plain explanation: Short stays: water is essential. Longer stays: water and food are essential.

2.8.3 Feeding and Watering En-Route

If transport extends beyond 1300 hours the day after placing pigeons into crates, the transporter must stop and provide rest, feed and water as needed. The transporter should arrive no later than 3 hours before sunset, or at least 4 hours prior to release for an overnight-held competition.

Plain explanation: On long trips, pigeons must not be left hungry or thirsty.

3.0 Exercise and Training Pigeons

3.1 Free Flight

Pigeons should be released regularly to maintain health and build fitness if involved in competitions. Pigeons released around the home loft should be supervised and should not be allowed to land away from the loft or yard. Exercise periods should be at least 60 minutes per day and where able no more than 420 minutes per day depending on the loft location.

Plain explanation: Exercise keeps pigeons fit, but too much can tire them out.

AHA guideline: Exercise should follow a plan and generally be at least 30 minutes and not exceed 180 minutes during preparation and the active competition period, with practical exceptions for certain rural and semi-rural conditions.

3.2 Non Flight Times

Uncontrolled open lofting for long periods is not permitted. Outside planned exercise, pigeons should be confined to the home loft.

Plain explanation: Don't leave pigeons roaming uncontrolled all day. Planned flying is safer.

4.0 Releasing of Pigeons and Competition

Pigeons must not be released away from the home loft for training or competition unless they are in good physical health and fitness. Owners and handlers must ensure pigeons are fit to return safely from the release point.

Plain explanation: Only healthy pigeons should be sent away. If they are not well, they stay home.

4.1 Fit for Competition

Pigeons may only be accepted for competition or exhibition if they are in sound health and physically able to complete the journey. Pigeons entered must be checked before being placed into transport crates.

Plain explanation: Check pigeons before they go. If a pigeon looks unwell, it should not go.

4.2 Stewards

Competitions should use competent appointed officials (stewards) whose role is to inspect any pigeon of concern and refuse entry if the pigeon is not fit to return safely.

Plain explanation: A trained checker must be able to say "no" to protect pigeons.

4.3 Inspection of Pigeons

Handlers must report any pigeon suspected of being unwell, injured, or compromised and must not hide such issues.

Plain explanation: Tell the truth about pigeon health. Do not risk a pigeon's life.

4.4 Clashes on the line of Flight

Organisations and individuals planning releases for competitions must take reasonable steps to avoid release clashes that could confuse flocks travelling in different directions.

Plain explanation: Don't release big groups into each other's paths.

4.5 Competition Controls

A competent person or group must assess weather along the route and decide if conditions are safe. A report should be prepared for each release, using BOM forecasts and documenting actions taken. Decision making must always favour caution when conditions are uncertain.

Plain explanation: Safety first. If weather is doubtful, don't take risks.

4.6 Liberation

Pigeons must not be released where conditions may prevent safe return. A competent release coordinator (liberator) must manage release timing and any release should occur only after approval from the appointed decision-maker(s). Birds must not be released in heavy rain, hail or heavy fog.

AHA Standard (must do): SB11.5 A person in charge must ensure pigeons are not released away from the home loft into extreme weather conditions or heavy lingering fog in any part of the return journey.

Plain explanation: Bad weather can disorientate or force pigeons to find a longer route home around the weather. Do not release pigeons in unsafe weather conditions.

4.7 Weather Hold Overs

Pigeons must not be released in unsafe weather. If conditions are unsuitable at the release site, pigeons may be held until conditions improve, but only if sufficient feed and water are available. In need pigeons can be brought home and the competition cancelled.

Plain explanation: If weather is unsafe, wait, but you must still feed and water pigeons.

4.8 Carriage of Pigeons

Pigeons transported for competitions or training must be carried in properly constructed containers that provide ventilation and enough room for comfort and safety.

Plain explanation: Transport must not overcrowd pigeons, overheat them or injure them.

4.8.1 Competition Panniers

Minimum internal height: 21cm. Space allowance depends on containment time: overnight 30cm2 per bird; two nights 35cm2 per bird; longer periods 40cm2 per bird. Straw is preferred in baskets etc so pigeons rest comfortably rather than standing on wire.

Plain explanation: More time in the crate means pigeons need more space and comfort.

4.8.2 Water and Feed

Pigeons in transport must have clean drinking water. If held beyond overnight, transport arrangements must include stopping to rest and provide feed and water. The pigeons in short distance competitions should be provided with clean water, but not be given any food prior to release as this can cause stress on the pigeons while on their journey home if they have not been able to drink effectively. The transporter must be equipped to carry clean water and feed.

Plain explanation: Longer trips require food and water.

5.0 Governance and Other Issues

5.1 Performance Enhancing Drugs

Policy: competitions must remain free of administered performance-enhancing drugs, with specific concern for corticosteroids. If birds are found sick or dead at any release point, analysis may be conducted to determine the cause. Where inappropriate substances are detected, the owner/handler will be held responsible and dealt with.

Plain explanation: Do not drug pigeons. It is unfair and can harm them.

5.1.1 Random Drug Testing

Authorised organisations may conduct random testing of droppings for prohibited substances. Refusal to produce a bird for testing may be treated as a positive result and may lead to disqualification.

Plain explanation: If testing is requested, cooperate. Refusal may be treated the same as cheating.

5.2 Airports

Owners and handlers must take care and steps to try and avoid releases at or near airports, also along flight paths likely to cross airfields, but it is understood that you have no control of a pigeon after it has been released.

Plain explanation: Airports are dangerous for pigeons and aircraft.

5.3 Imported Pigeons

Owners and handlers must take reasonable steps to ensure overseas bred pigeons have been lawfully imported to the best of the owners knowledge.

Plain explanation: Imported pigeons must be legal and safe.

5.4 Breach of Code

Where this Code is adopted as a binding requirement of an organisation or membership arrangement, serious or repeated breaches may result in consequences such as warnings, fines, suspension or cancellation of memberships.

Plain explanation: If someone breaks welfare rules, there must be consequences to protect pigeons and the community.

5.5 Stray Pigeon Management

Organisations must have arrangements to manage lost or injured pigeons. Failure to report or collect a reported stray pigeon, particularly when reported by the public, is a serious matter and may lead to sanctions.

Plain explanation: If someone finds a lost pigeon, it must be helped and collected quickly.

5.6 Pigeon Identification - Life Ring

It is recommended that pigeons should be identified by a non-removable plastic or plastic-coated aluminium ring. The ring should include owner/organisation details, year, pigeon ID number and a valid phone number. Information may be provided to APCL for a national database.

Plain explanation: A life ring helps a lost pigeon get home.

5.7 Neighbours

Members must take practical steps to reduce conflict with neighbours, including managing exercise times, maintaining cleanliness, reducing odours and acting reasonably to prevent disputes.

Plain explanation: Keep lofts clean and be considerate so neighbours do not have cause to complain.

5.8 Local Council Laws

Laws vary between regions. Members must understand and comply with local council requirements relating to lofts, hygiene, storage of feed, exercise timing and any applicable limits.

Plain explanation: Know your local rules and follow them.

5.9 Social Media

Online communication is important, but members must keep comments factual and constructive. Offensive or misleading content harms pigeon keeping and may be reported to Authorities.

Plain explanation: Be respectful online. Do not post harmful or false things.

APPENDIX:

ANIMAL HEALTH AUSTRALIA STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES

 

Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines (Poultry)
This Code of Practice incorporates and aligns with the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for Poultry published by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry on behalf of Animal Health Australia.
These standards apply to the care and welfare of all poultry species in Australia, including pigeons, and provide nationally recognised minimum welfare outcomes that pigeon keepers must be aware of and strive to meet.
The latest standards and guidelines are available from the Australian Government’s agriculture website at:
https://www.agriculture.gov.au/agriculture-land/animal/welfare/standards-guidelines/poultry

Standards (must do)

  • SB11.1   A person in charge must ensure every effort is made to avoid aggression towards both hen birds and immature nestlings by the appropriate selection of breeding stock coupled with appropriate housing.
  • SB11.2   A person must not lift or carry pigeons by the head, legs, neck, wings, feathers or tail feathers unless otherwise supported by the breast.
  • SB11.3   A person in charge must ensure pigeons are not weaned before they are capable of feeding and drinking independently of their parents.
  • SB11.4   A person in charge must ensure that at all times there are more perches, either box or V shaped, available in the loft than resident pigeons.
  • SB11.5   A person in charge must ensure pigeons are not released away from the home loft for competitions into extreme weather conditions or heavy lingering fog in any portion of the return journey.

Guidelines (recommended)

  • GB11.1   Stock bird lofts should be roofed to maintain dry nesting areas.
  • GB11.2   Perches should be provided at several height levels.
  • GB11.3   Nest boxes should have provision for two sections in the event of the hen needing to seek refuge from the cock bird.
  • GB11.4   Nest bowls should be lined with a nonslip material or nesting material supplied.
  • GB11.5   Wherever possible mated pairs should be housed in a nest box.
  • GB11.6   The minimum space available in the breeding loft should be 0.23m3 per pigeon (excluding nesting areas).
  • GB11.7   The minimum space available to each bird in the competition loft should be 0.092m3 (or 450mm x 450mm x 450mm).
  • GB11.8   If wire floors are used, mesh should be not less than 18 gauge and 25mm x 25mm or equivalent.
  • GB11.9   With exceptions for some rural/semi-rural conditions and for birds returning from events/training, free flight should follow a plan and be at least 30 minutes and not exceed 180 minutes per day during preparation and the competition period.
  • GB11.10  Other than planned free flight and non-flight times, pigeons should be confined within their home loft.
  • GB11.11  Seasonal release timing guidance (June-August and September-October) as per AHA guidance.
  • GB11.12-GB11.18 Loft clearance, flooring options, moisture barriers, aviary drainage/vermin control, roof insulation, lining and feeding after exercise as per AHA guidance.

 POLICY STATEMENT - CODE OF CONDUCT AND ETHICS

Members have a responsibility to uphold the aims of the APCL and are bound by this Code of Conduct and Code of Ethics. This Code is designed to help members understand what behaviour is appropriate and expected.

CODE OF CONDUCT

  • Participate for enjoyment and be proud of membership.
  • Improve yourself: listen, ask questions, learn from others.
  • Value other people's contributions.
  • Set a positive example at all times.
  • Respect other officials, members, volunteers, the disadvantaged and judges. Do not do anything that makes another person feel unsafe, humiliated or disrespected.
  • If at an Exhibition, do not argue with a judge's decision. Instead, calmly ask for an explanation after the decision.
  • Learn to lose with dignity and to win with grace.
  • Do not verbally abuse any person.
  • Do not publicly undermine officials; instead, support improvements respectfully.
  • At exhibitions, shows and events: treat others as you want to be treated.
  • Show interest in other fanciers efforts and congratulate achievements.
  • Remember: participation and enjoyment matter more than winning.

Plain explanation: Be kind, calm, fair and respectful. If people behave badly, it harms the whole community and puts pigeon keeping under pressure.

CODE OF ETHICS

Committee members will:

  • Perform duties professionally and honestly.
  • Be fair and equal in dealings with others.
  • Use skill, care and diligence and act without bias.
  • Avoid conflicts of interest (personal or financial).
  • Use confidential information properly and only for official purposes.
  • Support democratic majority decisions once made.
  • Show loyalty to APCL and act responsibly in public forums.
  • Work for the benefit of the Fancy.

Members will:

  • Promote pigeon keeping responsibly and uphold APCL's Code of Conduct.
  • Participate positively and support others.
  • Be accountable and use care and respect at events.
  • Act honestly and with integrity.
  • Respect individual rights and treat others courteously.

Plain explanation: Do the right thing, be honest and act in a way that protects the broader view of keeping pigeons and the reputation of the community.

Conduct violations (examples)

  • Rude questioning directed at a judge at any time.
  • Verbal or physical attack of any person at an exhibition, show or event.
  • Handling another exhibitor's birds without permission, or damaging property.
  • Withdrawing entries prior to authorised release time without permission.
  • Creating a disturbance.
  • Trying to influence judging or identifying birds to the judge improperly.
  • Breaching APCL's Code of Conduct.
  • Stealing pigeons or personal property.
  • Distributing degrading literature or correspondence.
  • Fraudulent practices or conduct that damages pigeon welfare or harms APCL.

Plain explanation: These behaviours are unacceptable because they harm people, pigeons and the trust needed for fair events.

GOVERNMENT CHECKS

  • Ensure that everyone is treated fairly and are safe, especially the elderly, children and disabled
  • Ensure that members of your organisations are “Fit and Proper” individuals, therefore they obtain clear, 1. Federal Police Check (with no convictions or impropriatory), also obtain a 2. “Working with Children Check” or a “NDIS Check”. Focus is on providing a criminal and safe environment for children and people with Disabilities.

 GLOSSARY OF PIGEON TERMS

Aviary
An enclosed outdoor area attached to or near a loft that allows pigeons to safely experience sunlight, fresh air and natural weather without being released.

Basket / Crate / Pannier
A purpose-built container used to safely transport pigeons. It must allow enough space, ventilation, water access and comfort for the time pigeons are contained.

Breeding Loft (Stock Loft)
A loft used to house pigeons kept for breeding. These pigeons usually require more space and are not always released for free flight.

Breeding Pair
A cock (male) pigeon and a hen (female) pigeon housed together for the purpose of producing young pigeons.

Cock
A male pigeon.

Competition Loft
A loft used to house pigeons that are trained, exercised and entered into organised pigeon competitions or events.

Deep Litter
A loft floor system where dry bedding material is layered and maintained so droppings dry out rather than being removed daily. It must be kept dry and clean to be acceptable.

Duty of Care
The legal and moral responsibility of a person who keeps pigeons to take all reasonable steps to protect their health, safety and wellbeing.

Exercise (Free Flight)
A controlled period where pigeons are released from the loft to fly and return on their own to maintain fitness and health.

Feed
The grains, seeds, legumes and supplements provided to pigeons to meet their nutritional needs.

Handler / Fancier
Any person who catches, holds, transports, releases or otherwise physically manages pigeons.

Hen
A female pigeon.

Homing Pigeon
A pigeon trained to return to its home loft from a distance. Homing pigeons are often protected under state legislation.

Ill Treatment
Any action or inaction that causes unnecessary pain, injury, stress or suffering to a pigeon.

Life Ring (Identification Ring)
A non-removable ring fitted to a pigeons leg that identifies the pigeon by year, number, owner or organisation and should have a phone contact number. It helps return lost pigeons to their keeper.

Liberation
The controlled release of pigeons from a designated location during an organised event or training activity.

Liberation Committee / Release Coordinator
The appointed person or group responsible for assessing weather conditions and approving or delaying the release of pigeons for safety reasons.

Loft
A purpose built structure used to house pigeons. A loft must be clean, dry, ventilated, secure from predators and suitable for the number of pigeons kept.

Neglect
Failure to provide pigeons with adequate food, clean water, shelter, hygiene, health care or protection from harm.

Perch
A resting place inside a loft where pigeons sit. There must always be more perches than pigeons to prevent bullying and stress.

Pigeon Keeper / Fancier
A person who keeps pigeons for any lawful purpose, including hobby, exhibition, breeding, training or competitions.

Release Point
The location where pigeons are released during an organised event or training activity.

Squeaker
A young pigeon that is still dependent on its parents for food and care and sometimes until the first moult, whereby it will be then classed as a Young Bird.

Steward (Welfare Inspector)
An appointed person responsible for checking pigeon health and fitness before transport or release and for protecting pigeon welfare.

Stray Pigeon
A pigeon that has become lost, injured, or separated from its home loft and requires assistance or return to its keeper.

Training
Planned activities used to gradually build a pigeon’s fitness, navigation ability and confidence before participation in competitions or events.

Transporter
The person or vehicle responsible for moving pigeons safely between locations, including ensuring access to water, feed, ventilation and rest as required.

Ventilation
The movement of fresh air into a loft and stale air out to maintain dryness, reduce ammonia buildup, and protect respiratory health.

Weaning
The process of separating young pigeons from their parents once they can feed and drink independently, usually at 30+ days old.

Welfare
The physical and mental wellbeing of pigeons, including health, comfort, safety, freedom from pain or distress and the ability to express normal behaviour.