Enzyme activity and biochemical parameters in racing pigeons (Columba livia domestica) during flight effort

Since the oldest times, pigeons attracted the interest of people by their unbelievable sense of spatial orientation, flying capabilities, monogamous behaviour and bond to their habitat. By successfully returning from the race in a winning position, the pigeons demonstrate favourable factors, such as their inherent qualities, health state, stress related to transport and hygiene conditions in their breeding environment. Shortened flying times at competitions and more races per season indicate the higher performance of these birds which is reflected in their health and short periods of regeneration.1,2