Pigeon breeding promotes rural vitalization

The pigeons in the breeding and hatching base are healthy and robust. [Photo by Zhang Minmin for chinadaily.com.cn]

Located in Changwangpu community in Binhe area, Zhucheng, Shandong, the Fuxiang Livestock Pigeon Breeding and Hatching Base is currently the largest meat pigeon breeding and hatching base in Zhucheng, covering an area of 30 mu (about two hectares). 

The base received nearly 15 million yuan ($2.08 million) in investment and features a 11,000-square-meter pigeon breeding shed capable of housing 30,000 pairs of breeding pigeons. Around 400,000 pairs of breeding pigeons are expected to be cultivated annually, bringing in an expected annual income of over 50 million yuan.

Through models such as "company + base" and "company + cooperative + farmers", Zhucheng ensures that farmers receive comprehensive support from enterprises throughout the breeding process, including providing breeding pigeons, feed, technical expertise, and purchasing services.

In the pigeon shed, rows of pigeon cages are in good order, with adequate water and food. [Photo by Zhang Minmin for chinadaily.com.cn]

Meanwhile, the hatching and breeding of squabs, in addition to increasing the incomes of average people, has also brought substantial income to the community cooperative. 

"We have established a community cooperative, and through the promotion of meat pigeons, members participate in profit-sharing through stock ownership. So far, 20 households have expressed their intention to engage in breeding," said Ma Bingyou, secretary of Changwangpu community. 

The cooperative plans to promote 400,000 pairs of meat pigeons within the next two years, involving over 200 households in meat pigeon breeding.

The development of characteristic industries not only drives the transformation and development of farmers but also creates more local employment opportunities for the surrounding communities. (Edited by Huang Junyao)