What is a racing pigeon?

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A type of bird, the racing pigeon originated in Africa and Asian and is sometimes called a carrier pigeon or by its scientific name Columba livia. Racing pigeons have found use in the international sport pigeon racing since the 19th century.

Appearance

Racing pigeons are blue and gray in color with iridescent yellow, purple and green markings on their feathers, reports CentralPets.com. The tail area of the bird is usually banded with light gray stripes, while the wing may have a mottled appearance.

Senses

The racing pigeon has the ability to sense the Earth's electromagnetic fields and then use this sense to navigate, explains the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research.

Distance

A champion racing pigeon can travel 400 miles in one day and locate its home from a distant place it has never been before, according to the Stanford Solar Center at Stanford University.

Speed

Racing pigeons can travel at speeds of 40 to 50 miles per hour, reports the Stanford Solar Center at Stanford University.

Features

Racing pigeons used in sporting events require training often with rewards of food. Individuals who raise pigeons for racing are known as pigeon fanciers in the racing world.

Source:

Stanford Solar Center at Stanford University: Solar Activity Effect on Pigeons

University Corporation for Atmospheric Research: Confused Homing Pigeons and Space Weather

Central Pets: Racing Pigeons

More Information:

Racing Pigeon Digest: An Introduction to Pigeons and Pigeon Racing

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What is a racing pigeon?

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