Homing pigeon

The homing pigeon is a variety of domesticated Rock Dove (Columba livia) that has been selectively bred to be able to find its way home over extremely long distances. Because any pigeon generally returns to its own nest and its own mate, it was relatively easy to selectively breed the birds that repeatedly found their way home over long distances. The birds can carry messages (frequently written on cigarette paper) in a small tube attached to one leg. Flights as long as 1689 miles have been recorded by exceptional birds in competition pigeon racing. Their average flying speed over moderate distances is around 30 miles per hour, but they can achieve bursts of speed up to 60 mph.

Related Topics:
Rock Dove - Pigeon - Selectively breed - Pigeon racing

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

This bird is to be distinguished from the carrier pigeon, an entirely different breed.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~