In a beautiful backyard just south of the village, an unusual visitor appeared at a bird feeder. Clearly not your standard pigeon, the bird lover who fills the feeder was surprised when the pigeon was back the next day, and the next. Noticing a band on the birds leg and unusual tameness, the bird lover contacted us to help solve the mystery.
Most likely this is a racing pigeon, a “red bar” variety, that is specifically bred for this sport. It just so happens that my dad and I raised homing pigeons for years with birds provided by the late veterinarian Dr. Mike Doty. Certain pigeons have the uncanny ability to find their home coop from many miles away.
A homing pigeon race works like this: Bird owners enter individual pigeons into a contest, where they wear a band that allows the birds to be tracked and timed. Contestants release the birds and whoever makes it back to the home coop first wins. Prizes and championships are awarded, some pigeons become “stars” of the sport, and some birds never make it back home.
The reasons a homing pigeon doesn’t return vary; predators like a peregrine falcon or a major weather event are both common reasons. Sometimes the internal “homing” mechanism goes wacky and the pigeon gets lost.
This birds home coop could be in the Wellsville area but could also be in Erie, PA or beyond.
Perhaps you know a homing pigeon aficionado? As best the bird lover who is worried about this “homer” can tell, the number on the band is: 7033.
Dear Don,
Just sending a gift for my appreciation for getting such nice Sion birds from you. When I get some youngsters from them, I will send you some photos. I am still planning on purchase another hen and cock. Have a good breeding season with your birds.
Received birds this morning here in Missouri. They are safe and both beautiful.
Beautiful female pigeon. Lovely mix of colors, fether quality and great posture. I figured her picture wasn't the best pose. The male is impressive and very masculine looking and I'm happy to say they are calm and get along very well together. Thanks again they are gorgeous....
The birds arrived today got them all tucked in the loft. You saved the best for last I think there nice birds ,,only sorry I didn't buy a couple of the other hens. Thanks alot
Hello. I received the birds today they look great. Thank you very much.
The Hen is here! Awesome bird & I can feel the power just holding her. She is very calm pigeon & that is always a plus. Thanks so much!
Hi this is Nate from Wisconsin. I just wanted to let you know the Andalusian cockbird made it here in good shape today. Thanks again!
Hi Don, birds are adapting well. I like their presentaion & calmness. Looks like they will fit in with my birds. I see what you mean about the BB. We'll see how he produces. Might b a genetic thing & go away when crossed with and unrelated hen.
Regards
Jim
Halo! Just picked up bird from post office. Thank you very much!
Thank you very much for your attention. the pigeons are beautiful and eat well. Im recommending your pigeons to my friends. I hope to buy more pigeons from you in the future. Thank you.
Arrived early and in perfect condition. I have 8 favorites.
The Alexander Hansenne is indeed a remarkable Racing Pigeon Strain. Dr Willaim Anderson in his book "The Sport of Racing Pigeons" 1947 writes extensively about this outstanding Fancier. I luck to have an original copy of the book. Need i say i myself have of the Bronze chequers in my stock loft Well wishes to you
