By Jennifer O’Connor, Norfolk, Va.
Friday, Jan. 24, 2025 | 2 a.m.
Pigeon racing is a lethal pastime.
Numerous pigeons undergo and die yearly on this cruel and mercenary pastime. Folks for the Moral Therapy of Animals (PETA) carried out a 15-month undercover investigation into a number of the largest pigeon-racing operations within the nation and documented huge casualties of birds throughout races and coaching, rampant “culling” (killing), abusive coaching and racing strategies, and unlawful interstate playing.
Since satisfaction and revenue are sometimes the compelling elements in pigeon racing, house owners have little use for birds who can’t or gained’t win. One racer advised PETA’s investigators that the “very first thing it’s a must to study” in pigeon racing is “how one can kill pigeons.” One other advisable killing these mild birds by drowning them, pulling their heads off or squeezing their breasts so tightly that they suffocate.
Pigeons are sensible and have advanced social relationships. Their listening to and imaginative and prescient are wonderful however they nonetheless flock in massive numbers to assist shield each other from predators. They enrich our mornings with their mild cooing they usually should be left in peace.
The author is a senior author for the PETA Basis.
