_b._ The _trap_ is a specially constructed opening which permits the pigeon to enter but not to leave the loft. When a pigeon enters the loft this way, it is said to have “trapped.” A trap which permits the pigeon to enter and leave at will is called an “open trap.” A landing board is placed in front of the trap upon which pigeons alight when about to enter the loft. _c._ A _settling cage_ of wire which is built to fit over the roof and landing board of the loft, is used to aid in settling and training pigeons to trap. 18. Preparation of Loft to Receive Pigeons The first step in preparing to receive a shipment of pigeons is to arrange for their housing. If it is the initial stock for a loft, the entire loft will be available. In the case of subsequent shipment, place new stock in a separate compartment for a period of observation. In order to anticipate arrival of birds, maintain contact with the agency making delivery. Then proceed as follows: _a._ Clean the loft. _b._ In good weather keep front of the loft open so that plenty of sunlight and air can enter. _c._ To keep drafts out during extreme cold and windy weather, cover openings of the loft with porous materials which will allow passage of air and will not interfere with the camouflage appearance. _d._ Spread a small quantity of coarse sand on the floor of the loft to aid cleanliness and to supplement the grit. _e._ Provide 10 percent more perching space than is necessary for the number of incoming birds. 19. Receipt of Pigeons at Loft To receive pigeons at a loft, proceed as follows: _a._ Immediately upon their arrival transfer the birds to the loft from the crates or baskets in which they were transported. The pigeons may have completed a lengthy trip and be in comparatively poor condition because of delays in travel or lack of proper care and attention. _b._ Immediately after the birds have been transferred to the loft, carefully examine and handle each pigeon, separating the healthy from the sickly. Place the healthy birds in a compartment where they can obtain plenty of fresh drinking water, and feed them sparingly. Isolate the birds which appear sick until they are fully recovered. [Illustration: _Figure 6. Stationary loft._ TL70176] [Illustration: _Figure 7. Loft PG-46-A._ TL70177] _c._ It is imperative that the pigeons be vaccinated against pigeon pox if they were not vaccinated prior to shipment. _d._ Thereafter water, feed, and provide bathing water according to instructions in paragraphs 20 to 23, inclusive. _e._ Make an exact inventory of the pigeons, noting band markings, colors, special markings, and physical condition of each bird. _f._ Become familiar with the pigeons while they are confined. Accustom them to the presence of caretakers and to feeding at definite times.