Description
Lifespan: Up to 15 years and sometimes longer
Homing pigeons, also known as postal pigeons or messenger pigeons, are a kind of domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica) that are descended from wild rock doves and were carefully developed for their capacity to navigate extremely long distances back to their nests.
Origin/ Habitat
By 3000 BC, Egypt began using homing pigeons for pigeon posts,[citation needed] making use of the bird’s unique ability to navigate when separated from its nest due to a highly developed sense of orientation. The pigeon was then released and given messages tied around its legs so it could fly back to its original nest. Homing pigeons were widely utilized for military communications during the 19th century.
As early as 3000 years ago, the pastime of flying messenger pigeons was widely established. They served as a means of announcing the Ancient Olympics’ victor. Both Genghis Khan and Baghdad utilized messenger pigeons as early as 1150. Sultan Nur ad-Din had established a regular connection between Baghdad and Syria by 1167. The first time Pedro Tafur, a Spanish pilgrim, observed carrier pigeons was in Damietta, near the entrance of the Nile, in 1436. Tafur thought the birds made circular trips, out and back. Pigeon posts were added to the Republic of Genoa’s network of Mediterranean Sea watchtowers. In addition to using messenger pigeons, Tipu Sultan of Mysore (1750–1799) had his headquarters in the Jamia Masjid mosque in Srirangapatna. Even now, you can still see the pigeon holes on the mosque’s minarets.
Behavior
Pigeon homing flights can be separated into an initial phase and a homing phase. When pigeons are released, they typically do not fly off immediately but instead stay close to the release location until, after some time has passed, they arrive at a Point of Decision and start their homing flight.
As Pet
Living Requirements
Homing pigeons, like poultry, need a place that is secure from predators and weatherproof. Ideal loft conditions include height and sufficient ventilation. The birds naturally circle their loft in flocks. A soothing sound comes from the hum of their wings as they move the air above. Install a small entrance with a landing platform in front so the birds may enter and exit the structure. Make sure the door can be secured to keep predators out and install the landing platform. Next, provide lots of nesting boxes, roosts, and ledges for the pigeons to perch on in the loft.
Feed and Water
Fresh water and pigeon feed, a blend of grains and seeds that is available at most co-ops and pet stores, are necessities for the birds. Pigeons require more than just food and water; they also need grit. While crushed granite aids in digestion, crushed oyster shells supply calcium.
Training
Starting in the loft is training. After buying homing pigeons, keep them within the enclosed structure for about four weeks before releasing them to fly. This will reinforce the loft’s status as a residence. Next, let the birds fly by opening the loft door each day.
Most likely, they would frequently circle back to the loft while flying overhead as though they were getting their bearings. The procedure of releasing homing pigeons more and farther from home might start for the new owners after another four weeks. Release them first in the vicinity of their loft. Next, move one mile away, then five miles, and so on until you have travelled the desired distance. From the coop, the same procedure can be applied in every direction. The homing pigeons can gain their bearings and increase their endurance thanks to this incremental training.
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