In more modern times, pigeon bands are used to track the bird's movements and identify the owner in the event that the pigeon becomes lost or injured. These bands are typically made of lightweight metal or plastic, and they contain the owner's name, contact information, and often a unique identification number. This information can be used to trace the pigeon back to its owner in case it gets lost or injured.
Additionally, pigeon bands can also be used for research purposes, such as tracking bird migration patterns or studying the behavior of wild pigeons. In this case, the bands can contain additional information, such as the bird's species, sex, age, and the location where it was banded. This information can help researchers gain valuable insights into the behavior and biology of pigeons.