Straight Pigeon Seed

“Straights” are single grains or pulses you can blend to target goals (e.g., more protein for breeding, extra carbs/oils before a race) without changing the whole mix.

• Energy: maize types (Cribbs, French/Dog Tooth, Popcorn, Black/Red/Orange, Grits)
• Protein: peas (white/blue/maple), tic beans, tares, mung beans
• Oils/finish: hemp, safflower (use sparingly)

• Rest/maintenance: ~60–70% maize, 25–35% peas/beans, up to 5% oil seeds
• Breeding/rearing: ~40–50% maize, 40–50% peas/beans/tares, 0–5% oils
• Late-week polish: raise maize to 70–80% with 10–20% protein and up to 5% oils
  Adjust to droppings, weight and workload.

Use lightly (typically ≤5%) and increase only if birds are working hard. Too much oil can soften droppings or add unnecessary weight.

Start with softer/smaller peas (e.g., white peas, maples) and keep beans modest. Watch crop emptying and droppings; adjust if feed seems heavy.

Blend changes over 3–7 days (e.g., 75/25 → 50/50 → 25/75) so birds adjust smoothly. Avoid big switches just before basketing.

Yes. Offer insoluble grit and a mineral source ad lib to support digestion, shell/feather quality and overall condition.

• Cribbs/Dog Tooth: classic yellow maize, steady energy
• Black/Red/Orange: denser kernels; many fanciers like their “finish”
• Popcorn/Small: small, digestible grains; good late-week
• Grits Maize: coarsely ground for easier take-up

Feed to clear within 1–2 days, keep troughs tidy, and avoid over-portioning. Sweep up spills and store grain airtight to deter pests.