Age-related dynamics of reproductive performance and egg quality in breeding pigeons

Egg laying is an important reproductive behavior of female poultry. This study aimed to clarify the correlations and variation patterns between the age (1-3 years) of breeding pigeons and the stability of their egg-laying performance and egg quality. 900 pairs of breeding pigeons aged 1-3 years (300 pairs per group) with stable pair bonds were selected and reared under identical conditions. Egg-laying indicators, egg quality traits, and nutritional components were recorded and analyzed. The results showed that clutch size was consistently 2 eggs, and oviposition interval was stably 2 days across all age groups. Notably, the duration of clutch pause was concentrated in the range of 9-13 days, exhibited a significant decreasing trend with increasing age (p < 0.001). The 3-year-old group also demonstrated superior yolk specific gravity, yolk color, unsaturated fatty acid content (especially linoleic acid and α-linolenic acid), and PUFA/SFA ratio. No significant differences were observed in amino acid composition or cholesterol content among the three age groups. Taken together, breeding pigeons maintain high egg-laying performance and superior egg quality up to 3 years of age. These findings provide a theoretical basis for maximizing the utilization of breeding pigeons during this 3-year core reproductive period, precisely optimizing breeding and management practices, and promoting the sustainable development of the pigeon industry.