How to Use Homing Pigeon Racing Systems

Pigeon racing got its start in Belgium in the 1800s. The domestication of pigeons goes back 8000 years, but racing is a new sport. Arabs have used pigeons as messengers since the Moorish Empire. Genghis Kahn ruled his empire with the use of carrier pigeons.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Trap
• Loft
• Birdseed
• Homing pigeons
• Timing clock
• Rubber bands with serial numbers

1. Select the traditional method of timing your pigeons. You will need rubber bands with serial numbers. You must purchase the right bands to go with your timing machine.

2. Record the serial numbers on the bands—once the pigeon returns home you will insert the band into the timing machine.

3. Make sure the racing clock is sealed—the accuracy of the race is the responsibility of all participants.

4. Determine which bird returned first if more than one land home at the same time.

5. Trap the pigeon in the trapping section of the loft. You must train the pigeon to go into the trap on its own.

6. Take the rubber band off the pigeon's leg and insert it into the racing clock. The quicker you do this, the more you help the time of your pigeon.

7. Learn the difference between official time and actual time. The racing clock records the official time.

Tips & Warnings

• Reward the pigeon every time it comes home and goes into the trap for band removal.
• Remove the band from the pigeon's leg as gently as possible. Make the experience a positive one. The timing of a race depends on the speed of the band removal.