There's more to pigeons than their reputation as the "rats of the sky." Pigeons have an extraordinary ability to find their nests despite traveling vast distances, a homing instinct so reliable it was first used in ancient Egypt and was still being relied upon by militaries as recently as World War II. The quickest pigeons average about 60 miles per hour, hitting 100 mph with strong tail winds.
Pigeon racing began in Belgium in the 1800s. Local breeders, known as fanciers, would release their birds far from home and measure the time and distance covered to return.
A modern variation, called one loft racing, is where the big money is, with prizes topping $1 million at races in South Africa, Thailand and the United States. Fanciers ship their most promising young birds, just 45 to 60 days old, to a single host loft months before race day, so the pigeons can learn to recognize it as home. Each entry costs hundreds of dollars. The more pigeons in the race, the larger the pot becomes.
The pigeons spend months becoming acclimated. Trainers release them at incrementally greater distances — 5 miles, then 10, 20, 50, and 75. Each time, the pigeons have to find their way back. Some don't make it, lost to weather or predators.
60 Minutes got a firsthand look at the sport in October at the Algarve Golden Race in Portugal, where 7,400 pigeons from more than 30 countries competed, with 3,334 birds in the final. Each was scanned into a database by leg band, driven 300 miles from the loft and released. Six hours later, a spotter blew a whistle: the leaders were circling. The first pigeon into the loft won its owner the biggest cut of the $1.2 million purse.
The day after the race, the top finishers are auctioned to fanciers hoping to breed the next generation of champions. But those prices are chicken feed compared to what elite pigeons fetch on the largest auction platform in the sport.
Pam please tell Donnie these Hansennes do indeed have a lot of class. Large wings like I've never seen like maybe on a duck or owl. They have a lovely prance, and their Roman noses takes the cake. Love it! Keep up the good breeding Donnie.
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.
