Pigeons Have Fans

Years ago, my friend Kenny's father kept pigeons. Their garage had been turned into a pigeon coop, which is actually a misnomer, pigeon poop is the actual correct term. Because the feathered rats remodeled the place biologically upon moving in. But Kenny's dad was a pigeon fancier for whatever reason. I never did understand the attraction. But there are actually gatherings of people who love the winged poop factories. There was one in New Mexico just the other day.

CARLSBAD, N.M. - Handlers from across New Mexico and west Texas presented 350 breeds of pigeons during the Pecos Valley Pigeon Club's fall show, a rare opportunity for pigeon enthusiasts from around the region to gather.

"Pigeon shows are not very popular in the United States," club secretary Mickey Jackson said at Saturday's show. "They are very popular in Europe."

Pigeon shows are conducted much like a dog show.

Each type of bird is classified among various breeds — such as fancy, performing and utility breeds. Each bird is judged against others and the winners of each breed type are judged against each other to compete for best in show.

The Carlsbad Dove Hunters Association is reportedly planning on hanging around outside the next show. They're hoping for strays.