Panting in racing pigeons can be a completely normal pattern of respiration depending on the conditions. But it can also be a sign of disease or danger. In this article series, we will look at the bird respiratory system and how it adapts for survival in times of stress and disease.
Anatomy of the Bird Respiratory System
The respiratory system of a bird functions, to a point, similar to ours. The basic function is that inhaled air goes down the windpipe into a pair of lungs. But, beyond the basic function, there are major differences, which a successful fancier needs to learn in order to diagnose abnormal panting in his racing pigeons.
The bird’s respiratory system is still somewhat primitive from an evolutionary standpoint. However, there are some great advantages to the respiratory system of a bird that allows it to travel long distances at amazing speeds. Let’s look at this in more detail.
First of all, unlike humans, birds do not have a diaphragm, which is a muscle sheath that separates the chest from the abdomen. In a human, the diaphragm contracts, creating negative pressure in the chest cavity, which then causes air to rush into the lungs through the windpipe.
Air Sacs—An Integral Part of the Avian Respiratory System
Air Sacs for Speed and Endurance
Air sacs are an amazing anatomical feature that allows the bird to be buoyant enough to fly. Transparent tissue balloons that open off the lungs, air sacs occupy a lot of the bird’s internal body space. Filled with air, the bird is light and flight is possible.
Another feature that helps the bird is the fact that air flows through the air sacs and fresh air flows through the lungs on both inhalation and exhalation. This mean more oxygen is delivered more efficiently to the bird’s tissues. This abundance of oxygen gives the bird the ability for both stamina and speed.
Humans, if they are fast, can sprint 100 meters in 10 seconds. A greyhound dog might run about 300 meters in 16 seconds. But, compared to a racing pigeon, this is ‘third gear’! Racing pigeons will not only be as fast as or faster than the fastest greyhound, the racer can maintain the speed for hours.
Air Sacs—the Bird’s Radiator
Air sacs also function to maintain the bird’s normal body temperature and hydration. Because birds do not have sweat glands, they can’t cool themselves through evaporation of moisture from their skin. The way a bird cools itself is through the evaporation of moisture from the air sac lining.
As the bird heats up, it begins to breathe more rapidly, or pants, to increase the cooling process. The panting moves more air over the air sacs, cooling the bird. This panting is normal
The bird also loses moisture in the cooling process so it is essential that the pigeons have access to water. Drinking water replaces the lost fluid and prevents dehydration.
Now that you have learned about panting in racing pigeons as a normal function, let’s look at panting as part of the disease process in the second part of this article series.
Arrived early and in perfect condition. I have 8 favorites.
The Alexander Hansenne is indeed a remarkable Racing Pigeon Strain. Dr Willaim Anderson in his book "The Sport of Racing Pigeons" 1947 writes extensively about this outstanding Fancier. I luck to have an original copy of the book. Need i say i myself have of the Bronze chequers in my stock loft Well wishes to you
Hello Dale, Donnie & Pam
Firstly, I would like to thank Dale for his persistence yesterday. Both
Linda and I were so sorry that your crossing was so difficult.
Originally, you texted me that you would wait for us---so of course we
would wait for you!!
We had a very pleasant return home with clear roads etc. But were
extremely tired and went to bed early!! I am extremely happy with the
selection of birds you sent even the replacement for 20512.
It was a pleasure dealing with the Zehr family. I spent time with the
birds in the garage last night and today speaking "Zehr Sion" to them.
Think they understood---at least until they learn "Trini Sion". Lol!!!
Thank you all once again.
Wishing you all and your families a very Happy Holiday Season!!!
Dave and Linda
The 3 birds arrived this morning in Aurora, Colorado safe and sound. Thanks. We'll do business again!!
Hello. We received the two boxes today with the four Hansenne pigeons. Arrived in excellent condition.
She is SOOOOO BEAUTIFUL! Thank you guys for looking out for me. Can’t say enough about how much I love the bird and birds you have sent me.
Thank you so much, i got the bird! He's so beautiful, pin tail apple body, nice wing :)
Hello there, My name is Mike and live in Az, I had racing pigeons when I was young and now Im not young haha 61, Semi retired and determined to move to a place where I can fly birds again, want to get my grandkids involved. Anyway as a kid I flew some Sions and really enjoyed your website. When Im ready would love to get a few Sions again and see how they do. Any advice for an old newbie? lol
Hey Donnie, Saw your Birds on Ipigeon and must say, those are some Beautiful Heitzmans. They are very true to what I called the real thing. Beautiful Hansennes as well. Take Care, Chuck
Hi
I have placed the pigeon recieved from you recently in a priority express shipment back to you in same box recieved. Bird was beautiful and healthy but we realized it’s nature is such that it needs to fly and be a racing pigeon. We can’t offer that life to it and realize it was a mistake to try this based on our situation
Bird has had not been outside and has been confined indoors in isolation since recieved.
Please give it the home it deserves.
Appreciate the care you took getting it to us!!!
Need some color on my team. Had some sion couple years ago when i had a partner who sick and could not care for his own birds. He liked sions so i bought some from you on pigeonauction.com. We alot of fun his sions against my team .He has since past on. His family called me and thanked me for letting fly with me he really looked forward race day. HE WON EVERY WEEK
Path: https://www.clayhavenfarms.com/pigeons/for-sale
Thank you guys so much for allowing me the opportunity to love these birds.
