The Pin Feathers Don't Lie: Day 10 Reality Check

Is your next champion hiding in the nest bowl? Today is Day 10, which means it’s time to ring the latest round of youngsters. But ringing isn't just about the paperwork—it's the first real "inspection" of the season. While most flyers wait until the birds are on the perch to judge them, I’m looking at the feather tracts and pin feathers right now. If you see "stress marks" or uneven spacing at this stage, that bird is already starting at a disadvantage. I’ll show you exactly what a healthy 10-day-old "straw" should look like and how I check the development of the 2026 youngsters I’ve just brought into the loft. In this video: The 10-Day Inspection: Why I check the wings before the rings go on. Ringing Technique: My method for a smooth, stress-free ring. Honest Update: I share a mistake I made that cost me two birds—we all make them, and here is what I learned. Health & Tonics: My daily routine using Garlic, Iodine, and Oregano. Links & Resources Mentioned: Loft Management: I use LoftBuddy to keep all my breeding and racing records organized: https://loftbuddy.winfort-lofts.co.uk/ Gut Health: The Oregano oil I use is Ropa-B from Tumley Lofts: https://www.tumleylofts.co.uk/product... The Tonic: My homemade version of the Dave Allen tonic (Garlic & Iodine) to ward off Canker and respiratory issues. Loft Update: The season is moving fast, and the loft environment is everything right now. Clean air and consistent feeding are the only way these pins develop into the "velvet" feathers we need for the distance. How do your 10-day-olds look this week? Are you seeing clean pins or are the "stress marks" starting to show? Let’s talk in the comments. #RacingPigeons #PigeonRacing #PigeonLoft #YoungBirdSeason #PigeonBreeding #2026Racing #LoftBuddy #TumleyLofts