So I've been thinking about this thought for some time. In pigeon racing, there is artificial selection (we do the selecting based on what we like/see) and natural selection (the birds that remain at the end of the of the season(s), survive the race course, elements, and odds). Which plays more of a part in the overall "survival" of the birds? Are both versions against odds? For example, you select a bird based on its feel, eyesign, young bird results, etc. But, only to have that bird lose out on a training toss or in the first old bird season. Or, do you toss a bird that did not do well in young bird races, but never gave it a chance to shine? The only quandry of the latter example is the "What ifs?" Again, is there a struggle between the two, or do they ACTUALLY work hand-in-hand?
On another related thought, I've always heard the advice from well-seasoned fliers say "If you want to do well, get good birds from guys locally." First of all, most local guys won't give you their best, even when $$$ is involved. Or at least you'd get their 2nd best with money. But when thinking more and more about that saying, is that actually the best route to go? Birds that perform well locally have "survived" time after time. Why go for out of region birds when they've flown different courses? For example, birds that have flown well in cold mountainous regions won't adapt well to flat, hot, and humid regions.
Please share your thoughts.
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