The start of the racing pigeon breeds originated in the 1800s with one bloodline being developed in Belgium and another in England. The United States and Germany were not far behind with their own breed of racing homers. The object was to produce a pigeon that possessed a keen sense of direction but had the physical stamina to cover distance in rapid time.
Racing Homer
By crossing the Belgium breeds with the English ones a superior bird was the result. It had the intelligence to be easily trained and the endurance desired to make it a competitive racer. It became the hallmark and ancestor of others that were to follow. The Racing Homer is still the most popular of the species in the United States, England, Germany, Belgium and most Asian countries.
American Show Racer
The American Show Racer is a bird that emerged within the United States. The ancestors were Racing Homers but the breed is distinctively separate from those pigeons. The bird is well known for its beauty and symmetrical proportions. The American Show Racer makes an excellent brood bird as well as having a winning show presence. It is great for the beginning pigeon owner because of its manageability.
American Giant Homer - Show Racing Homer
Other birds that have their origin in the United States are the American Giant Homer and the Show Racing Homer. The American Giant is predominately a breeding bird while the Show Racing Homer is an athletic bird that possesses a great sense of balance making it a delight to watch in flight. This pigeon is good for the beginner who wants to let it fly just for pleasure. Its attractiveness makes it a natural for the show cage.
English Show Homer - Exhibition Homer - Genuine Homer
The English Show Homer is one of the older breeds of birds dating to the late 1800s. It has a regal bearing with a large head making it a desirable show bird. The Exhibition Homer is also from England, originating around 1900. This bird had a long face and a flat skull giving it an impressive uniqueness. They are considered rare in North America. Yet another show bird, developed in England, is the Genuine Homer. This pigeon is the product of selective breeding from the Racing, Show and Exhibition Homers with influences from the Dragoon. The breed is also a rare species in North America.
German Beauty Homer
The German Beauty Homer is a combination of show and racing characteristics making it a striking bird with a symmetrical flow. The German Beauty Homer is also a powerful flyer. Its aerodynamic qualities bring an unprecedented gracefulness to its flight.
More Information
For more information about racing pigeons visit the American Racing Pigeon Union.
Sources:
Pigeons of North America, A National Pigeon Association Publication, 2004
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