Douglas Wilson

16 posts

The Incredible Story of Homing Pigeons in War

The Feathered Heroes: In the age of satellites and digital signals, it is easy to forget that some of the most important messages in history were carried on the wings of a bird. Homing pigeons have played a vital role in human conflict for centuries, serving as a reliable way

The Widowhood System Explained

The Widowhood system is not about changing the bird; it is about changing the bird's reason for coming home.

What To Do If You Find a Lost Pigeon

Finding a pigeon on the ground or in your garden can be a worrying thing, especially if the bird seems tired or confused. In many cases, the pigeon you have found is not wild at all, but a racing or domesticated pigeon that has become lost on its way home.

Tech and Equipment

This guide explains the essential pigeon racing equipment, from traditional timing clocks to modern electronic systems, and how each fits into the daily life of a racing loft.

How Homing Pigeons Work

The science behind the incredible navigation skills of homing pigeons. How do they find their way?

Pigeons: An Overview

Overview of racing pigeons: how do they actually do it, and why are the top specimens worth millions?

Breeding

The Complete Beginner-to-Expert Guide (2026) Pigeon breeding is one of the most rewarding aspects of keeping homing pigeons—whether you’re aiming to improve racing performance, preserve bloodlines, or simply raise healthy birds. In this guide, you’ll learn everything from pairing pigeons to raising squabs, including proven techniques used

How To Keep Your Loft Damp-Free

A damp loft is a breeding ground for Coccidiosis, respiratory infections, and the dreaded "one-eye cold."

How Big Should a Pigeon Loft Be?

The Essential Guide to Space and Ventilation One of the most common mistakes for new fanciers is building a loft that is either too small for the birds to thrive or too large to manage effectively. In the world of racing and homing pigeons, the "perfect" size isn&

One Loft Racing

One Loft Racing: The Modern Way to Race Pigeons If you love the idea of pigeon racing but don't have the space for a loft—or the time to train birds every day—then One Loft Racing (OLR) is exactly what you’ve been looking for. It is

What Do Pigeons Eat?

A Beginner’s Guide to Feeding Your Birds Whether you have just found a stray bird in the garden or you are setting up your very first loft, knowing what to put in the feeder is the first step to becoming a successful fancier. Pigeons aren't fussy eaters,

Common Diseases

Keeping a loft of healthy pigeons is the goal of every fancier, whether you are just starting out with a few homing pigeons or managing an elite racing team. Especially in the damp (British!) climates, staying on top of loft hygiene and bird health is essential. While most pigeons are

Learn everything about homing pigeons, from how they find their way home to breeding, racing, care and rescue. Expert guides for beginners and enthusiasts.