While Owl Moon is a rescue for birds of prey, very rarely a unique non-raptor case comes our way. Recently, we received a call about a strange looking falcon that landed on a homeowner’s deck after colliding with a window. Our rescue volunteer went to assess the situation only to find a large, uniquely-colored pigeon. Stranger still—the pigeon had a band on his leg. The finder looked up the band number and discovered quite a backstory.
This remarkable pigeon was a two-time national champion cross-country racer originally from Seattle! The finder called the Pigeon Racing Association to confirm his identity. The Association President let us know that the pigeon’s breeder and original owner passed away six years ago. He was sold to a new owner in Virginia for breeding purposes but escaped before being found in Maryland. Pigeons typically only live 3-5 years in the wild though they can live far longer in captivity. The pigeon hatched in 2012, so at 12 years of age he passed away from old age in our care. We are grateful this epic racer spent his final night with us in the warmth and comfort of a human home.
