Passenger pigeons are extinct species of pigeons that once existed in abundance across North America. In the early 1800s, eastern North America was home to billions of these birds. Due to its migratory behavior, this species received its name from the French word passager, which means “passing by.”

Pigeons are black, as well as other colors with shades of red, blue, and even silver. Through selective breeding, we can also get different shades of black along with other unique colors. Fancy pigeons are used for exhibitions and for domestication. 

Pigeons are not blind and, in fact, have a spectacular vision. Like humans, they can see color, even ultraviolet light, which we cannot see. This is why they are often used in rescue missions for people and ships lost at sea.

Racing pigeons are domestic pigeons that are descendants of the wild rock dove. Racing pigeons are exceptionally good at navigating long distances to get home. They are, therefore, carefully bred to soar high and compete in pigeon racing events.