No one knows exactly how pigeons and other birds find their way across strange territory to reach home. Homing pigeons have been known to fly more than 1,600km in two days. This would not allow much time for random searching, so they somehow know the right direction to take.

Some people believe these birds have a mysterious ability to orient themselves with the Earth’s magnetic field, but there is no real proof of this. Others think the birds are guided by the position of the Sun. Just how they do this is not clear, but birds may lose their way in cloudy or foggy weather. Homing pigeons have a highly developed ability to recall visible landmarks. However, this does not explain their homing over unfamiliar country.

Facts about pigeons

How well do pigeons see?

Pigeons have very good eyes. They can see colours. They also can see ultraviolet light, which human beings cannot see.

What do pigeons eat?

Just about anything! Pigeons are not fussy eaters. They have only 37 taste buds, while we have 9,000.

How do pigeons drink?

Pigeons suck up water by using their beaks like straws. This is different from most birds. Most birds take sips of water and then throw their heads back to let the water trickle down their throats.

How do pigeons raise their babies?

Pigeons make nests of small twigs or stems which the males bring to the females one piece at a time. The nests are usually well-hidden, such as on high ledges, under bridges, or in empty buildings. Pigeons usually lay two white eggs. The parents take turns keeping the eggs warm. Males usually stay on the nest during the day and the females stay on the nest at night. Eggs take about 18 days to hatch. Both parents produce special milk which they feed, beak to beak, to their young during the first week. Scientists think that once pigeons mate, they stay together for life.

Do pigeons have any enemies?

Hawks and other large birds of prey catch and eat pigeons. In many cities, however, pigeons have no enemies.

How fast and far can pigeons fly?

Pigeons can fly 40 to 50 miles per hour. Most city pigeons stay close to home, flying less than 12 miles in a day. However, their wing muscles are strong and they can fly much further if necessary. Some pigeons have travelled 600 miles in a day!