During World War I and II, homing pigeons carried messages across enemy lines. Applauded for their skill and speed, 32 of these birds were awarded The Dickin Medal, the highest possible decoration for valor given to animals.
Today’s homing pigeons are often referred to as “racing pigeons” and “racing homers.” Clubs exist across the U.S. where members raise racing homers, a variety of homing pigeons that are selectively bred for enhanced speed and homing instinct. Pigeon racing club members train and condition their birds to race from 100 to 600 miles. The birds are timed and judged by how quickly they return home.
While most racing homers have gray feathers, there is a white variety of homing pigeon that looks like doves. They have pure white feathers and a small frame and are often released at special events such as weddings and memorial services. At weddings, the sight of pure white birds soaring through the air provides an unforgettable moment that symbolizes the couple’s new life together. At a memorial service, these “dove” releases offer a peaceful scene that often brings a sense of closure to those attending. Because homing pigeons fly home, the symbolic releases are seen as a humanitarian and environmentally-friendly way to celebrate an event.
Much like poultry, homing pigeons require a space that is safe from predators and protected from the elements. An elevated loft with good ventilation is ideal. The birds instinctively fly in groups circling their loft. The hum of their wings moving the air overhead is a peaceful sound. Install a small door, with a landing platform in front, that the birds can use to enter and exit the building, and make sure the door can be locked in order to keep it predator-proof. Next, equip the loft with plenty of nesting boxes as well as roosts and ledges for the pigeons to land on. The birds require fresh water and pigeon feed, a mixture of grains and seeds that can be found at most co-ops and pet stores. In addition to food and water, pigeons also need grit. Crushed oyster shell provides calcium while crushed granite helps their digestion.
When purchasing homing pigeons, it’s important to keep their primary trait of homing in mind. If not contained, an adult, mated pair will most likely fly back to their previous home. To reduce the chance of losing an investment, try to purchase young pigeons (squabs) that have never been trained to another loft. If the birds are young enough, they will quickly consider the new loft as home. However, if purchasing an adult pair, it’s helpful to keep them restricted to the loft until they have fledged since homing pigeons will typically stay with their young. After this initial hurdle, all birds hatched in the loft with consider it “home.”
Training begins in the loft. Once homing pigeons are purchased, keep them in the enclosed building for about four weeks before letting them fly. This will help solidify the new loft as home. Next, open the loft door every day and let the birds take wing. They will most likely fly circles overhead as if getting their bearings, staying within a quarter mile and return to the loft often. After another four weeks, the new owners can begin the process of releasing homing pigeons farther and farther from home. Begin by releasing them within sight of their loft. Then, one mile away, followed by five miles, and so on until the desired distance is reached. The same method can be done in all directions from the coop. This progressive training allows the homing pigeons to not only get their bearings but to build up their endurance.
While common pigeons – the kind that perch on top of statues in the town square – are often considered a nuisance, homing pigeons offer traits that set them apart. Generations have marveled at the mysterious way they return home, and the birds will continue to awe and inspire with their instinctive gift.
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
Hello Dale, Donnie & Pam
Firstly, I would like to thank Dale for his persistence yesterday. Both
Linda and I were so sorry that your crossing was so difficult.
Originally, you texted me that you would wait for us---so of course we
would wait for you!!
We had a very pleasant return home with clear roads etc. But were
extremely tired and went to bed early!! I am extremely happy with the
selection of birds you sent even the replacement for 20512.
It was a pleasure dealing with the Zehr family. I spent time with the
birds in the garage last night and today speaking "Zehr Sion" to them.
Think they understood---at least until they learn "Trini Sion". Lol!!!
Thank you all once again.
Wishing you all and your families a very Happy Holiday Season!!!
Dave and Linda
The 3 birds arrived this morning in Aurora, Colorado safe and sound. Thanks. We'll do business again!!
Hello. We received the two boxes today with the four Hansenne pigeons. Arrived in excellent condition.
She is SOOOOO BEAUTIFUL! Thank you guys for looking out for me. Can’t say enough about how much I love the bird and birds you have sent me.
Thank you so much, i got the bird! He's so beautiful, pin tail apple body, nice wing :)
Hello there, My name is Mike and live in Az, I had racing pigeons when I was young and now Im not young haha 61, Semi retired and determined to move to a place where I can fly birds again, want to get my grandkids involved. Anyway as a kid I flew some Sions and really enjoyed your website. When Im ready would love to get a few Sions again and see how they do. Any advice for an old newbie? lol
Hey Donnie, Saw your Birds on Ipigeon and must say, those are some Beautiful Heitzmans. They are very true to what I called the real thing. Beautiful Hansennes as well. Take Care, Chuck
Hi
I have placed the pigeon recieved from you recently in a priority express shipment back to you in same box recieved. Bird was beautiful and healthy but we realized it’s nature is such that it needs to fly and be a racing pigeon. We can’t offer that life to it and realize it was a mistake to try this based on our situation
Bird has had not been outside and has been confined indoors in isolation since recieved.
Please give it the home it deserves.
Appreciate the care you took getting it to us!!!
Need some color on my team. Had some sion couple years ago when i had a partner who sick and could not care for his own birds. He liked sions so i bought some from you on pigeonauction.com. We alot of fun his sions against my team .He has since past on. His family called me and thanked me for letting fly with me he really looked forward race day. HE WON EVERY WEEK
Path: https://www.clayhavenfarms.com/pigeons/for-sale
Thank you guys so much for allowing me the opportunity to love these birds.
Thanks again for the most beautiful Pure Paul Sions pigeons ever!! The loft is full of happy sounds from the birds strutting around in their new home. Y’all were so easy to work thru my problems of birds I chose.
Thanks a million times over Pam and Donnie. Your friend Jimi
