How did pigeon mail work

Pigeon mail, also known as homing pigeon mail or message pigeon mail, was a system of communication that used trained homing pigeons to carry messages between locations. Here's how it worked:

Training the Pigeons

Pigeons were trained to fly back to their loft, which was usually located near their breeding and rearing facilities. This was done by releasing the pigeons in a controlled environment, such as a large enclosed area, and rewarding them with food and shelter when they returned to the loft. Over time, the pigeons learned to associate the loft with food and shelter, and they would fly back to it instinctively.

Message Preparation

Before sending a message, it would be written on a small piece of paper or a message capsule, which was attached to the pigeon's leg. The message would typically be brief, as pigeons were not designed to carry large amounts of information.

Release and Flight

The pigeon would be released at the departure point, usually a designated location such as a post office or a military base. The pigeon would fly back to its loft, carrying the message with it. The flight distance could vary greatly, from a few kilometers to hundreds of kilometers.

Reception

When the pigeon arrived at the loft, it would be caught and the message would be removed from its leg. The message would then be delivered to the intended recipient, usually by hand or through a postal service.

Speed and Reliability

Pigeons were incredibly fast and reliable messengers. They could fly at speeds of up to 80 km/h (50 mph) and cover distances of over 1,300 km (800 miles) in a single day. The average delivery time was around 12-14 hours, although some pigeons were known to deliver messages in as little as 2-3 hours.

History and Use

Pigeon mail was used extensively throughout history, particularly during times of war. The first recorded use of pigeons for messaging dates back to ancient Greece, and they were used by various armies throughout history, including the Romans, the French, and the British. Pigeons were also used for civilian purposes, such as delivering messages between cities or between remote locations.

Decline and Legacy

With the advent of modern telecommunications, such as telephones and email, the use of pigeon mail declined significantly. However, pigeon racing and breeding continued to thrive, and pigeons remain popular pets and competitors in racing events. The legacy of pigeon mail can be seen in the development of modern messaging systems, which often rely on the principles of pigeon mail, such as the use of messengers and the importance of speed and reliability.