How Do You Control Carrier Pigeons?

Carrier pigeons, sometimes called homing pigeons, have been used for centuries to carry letters and objects. They are used for these missions because they have a unique ability to find their way back home after a trip.This instinct is attributed to their sense of smell and hearing as well as their sense of the magnetic field of Earth. They even learn to recognize landmarks, such as a building, to help guide them home. If you are raising carrier pigeons, you need to provide a comfortable home environment to control their desire to return home.

Things You'll Need

  • Pigeon coop
  • Food
  • Water
  • Food and water dispensers
  • Perches
  • Aluminum identification bands
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Instructions

    • 1

      Install the coop in an area that has plenty of fresh air and partial shade. Ideally, to house two carrier pigeons, the coop should be at least 4 feet square with a wire front and a roof. Attach food and water dispensers and one perch for every two pigeons. Expand the coop and provide more supplies as you add more pigeons. Clean the coop regularly.

    • 2

      Attach an aluminum band around the pigeon's shank (ankle) when it is 10 days old. The band should include an identification number and the current year. When picking up a pigeon, clasp your hands around the breast and wings and press a thumb gently -- but firmly - into its back. This will help you control the bird's wings and prevent injuries.

    • 3

      Keep young pigeons inside their coop for several months to help them become attached to their home. When training carrier pigeons, release them from specific landmarks and measure the distance from their coop. After they return, record the distance and time it takes for them to fly home. Start with short distances and increase the distance as the training progresses. Eventually the pigeon will know how to find home from great distances. It can then be used as a carrier.