If the change was to come into effect, fanciers could keep Pigeons in a Loft or Aviary provided they have appropriate space (Canadian Racing Pigeon Union/Facebook)

By Rachel May

A Flight To Remember

Melfort could soon be home to fancy pigeons

Nov 14, 2021 | 9:00 AM

The City of Melfort could soon welcome pigeon fanciers to the community.

At the city council meeting on Nov 8, a request was made to amend the livestock bylaw regarding keeping domestic pigeons.

The change was proposed due to an anonymous complaint against a fancier in the area.

Under bylaw 2010-14, the City of Melfort considers all chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese, pigeons, quails, guineas, and pheasants livestock.

Ken King, vice-president of the Canadian Racing Pigeon Union, said to the council that he is hoping to see a switch in how the city classifies pigeons.

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“We want to see it removed from the livestock bylaw and put into the animal control bylaw.”

The switch to animal control would give domestic pigeon owners more rights when it comes to their animals.

Regina and Saskatoon both have already added domestic pigeon bylaws to allow for fanciers to keep their flights.

If the change was to come into effect, fanciers in Melfort would have to provide 2 square feet of ground space for each pigeon in a dedicated loft or flight pen.

According to King, there are currently three to four fanciers in Melfort with several more wanting to get involved but are hesitant due to the current bylaw in place.

Those worried about seeing more pigeons than usual can rest assured that fancy pigeons are primarily kept inside.

“They are only released for exercise or competition and if they are released for a competition that might be two or three hundred kilometres away.”

King estimates that pigeons wouldn’t be outside of their cages for longer than two hours a day.

Pigeon racing in Saskatchewan is on the rise with around 100 races happing across the province. There are roughly 1200 competitions across Canada with most fanciers residing in British Columbia and Ontario.

Find out more about fanciers, pigeons, and competitions by visiting the Canadian Racing Pigeon Union on Facebook.

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Rachel.May@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @RachelMayFM