Welcome to the Vaal Pigeon Union Web Site
The VPU consists of nine clubs , five of the clubs originate from Northern Free State - Heilbron, Koppies, Playfair ( Sasolburg), Parys and Sasolburg. The remainder of the clubs originate from The Vaal Triangle - Vanderbijlpark, Emeraldt, Overvaal and V.P.K. 170 teams partake per race which includes 3400 pigeons in full flight
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Homing pigeons are a breed of rock pigeon, that are trained to return to their place of abode when released vast distances from their lofts. The concept of pigeons being able to return to their place of abode is not yet fully understood. Reseach however indicates that the earths magnetic field, light patterns in the sky, polarized sunlight and landmarks on the earths surface are contributing factors to pigeons finding their way back home. The homing pigeon belongs to the family Columbidae of the order Columbiformes. They are classified as Columbalivia.
Ancient Egyptians around 5000 years ago domesticated pigeons. In ancient greece pigeons were used to carry news of the olympic games. Racing pigeons became very popular during the 19th century. During the 20th century pigeons were trained by the United States Army Signal Corps to travel vast distances of up to 3700 km to their home lofts.
Homing Pigeons
