Carrier pigeons have played a pivotal role in conveying messages throughout history and civilizations. The domestication and breeding of pigeons dates back to the Fifth Dynasty in ancient Egypt (around 3000 BC). Therefore, the Egyptian civilization is one of the first civilizations to breed pigeons. But pigeon breeding wasn't limited to this. In 1150 AD, the Sultan of Baghdad established a postal system that relied on transporting messages by carrier pigeons. This method expanded to a wider scope between countries. European countries used carrier pigeons to transport messages during the 1848 revolution. Pigeons flew long distances as a means of transporting urgent messages during wars, according to “Britannica”.
With the rise of the carrier pigeon in this period, the idea developed until races were organized and became a sport in which pigeons compete in flight to cover long distances at great speed. This sport gained fame in the late nineteenth century in Britain, the United States, and France.
However, racing pigeons raise ethical issues regarding the birds' participation and welfare, as racing pigeons have been adopted as a betting sport for the fastest-flying birds.
Harmful effects of racing pigeons
Pigeons are killed if they do not perform well in the race.
The pigeons' offspring are separated from each other until the end of the race, causing psychological stress for the birds.
Pigeons are kept in enclosed spaces, causing them to kill each other.
Sick and injured pigeons are not treated but get killed.
Performance enhancing drugs are used, but it weakens their immunity in the long run.
Suffering from inadequate nutrition, pollution and increased risk of disease.
Reliance on cruel and inhumane training and racing methods.
Environmental impact of racing pigeons
1- Biodiversity imbalance: due to the separation of pigeons for long periods, which hinders the mating process.
2- Carbon emissions: As a result of using transportation means to transport pigeons for racing, which leads to spreading of harmful gases and emissions.
3- Pollution of air and water: The lack of care to clean pigeons and their waste is considered an important factor that contributes to air and water pollution.
4- Spread of diseases and epidemics: Pigeons are susceptible to many epidemics and diseases during racing periods, which contributes to the spread of infection due to medical neglect.
We must not forget the role played by carrier pigeons in maintaining ecological balance:
Works on recycling of minerals and nutrients in rural areas.
Their waste contributes to preserving trees and plants' health
Their waste is also used as a natural fertilizer that contributes to increasing fertility of soil and plant growth.
They act as pest control agents.
It is a food for carnivores like carnivorous birds.
They contribute to preserving biological diversity.
Are carrier pigeons endangered?
Racing pigeons are becoming endangered due to the proliferation of races in which they are subjected to cruel abuses, for the sake of competition and material pleasure, to satisfy human desires.
Poaching is one of the main factors threatening the carrier pigeon with extinction, as huge numbers of them are hunted for their meat and feathers.
Deforestation is one of the factors threatening pigeons with extinction. Forests are a natural habitat for pigeons, and removing them will destroy the natural habitats they feed on, threatening their existence and causing an imbalance in the ecological balance.
How do changing climate conditions affect carrier pigeons?
Over the ages, humans have caused environmental changes that have impacted the climate to such an extent that it is difficult for carrier pigeons to adapt. Rising temperatures cause birds to change their habitats, migration times, and egg-laying schedules.
Droughts and forest fires caused by global warming are destroying pigeons' nesting habitats.
Carbon emissions increase the chance of pigeons developing respiratory health problems.
How can we help carrier pigeons in the face of climate change?
Reducing climate stress to boost bird numbers and help them breed.
Develop effective plans to reduce harmful carbon emissions.
Improving bird habitats by planting trees.
Protect forests and natural areas that shelter birds.
Enacting laws and regulations to protect birds and wildlife.
Therefore, attention must be paid to the frequent violations that homing pigeons are subjected to during races. Decision-makers should be encouraged to impose strict restrictions and enact legislation regulating these races to protect the welfare of pigeons and preserve the balance of the natural environment without unethical human interference.
