Let’s talk about a situation that any pigeon fancier might encounter: finding a pigeon with a ring. It’s an occurrence that may seem straightforward, but the process of identifying the owner of the pigeon can be quite complex. So, if you’ve found a pigeon and don’t know what to do, follow this step-by-step guide.

Understanding the Pigeon’s Ring

The first thing you need to do is carefully examine the ring on the pigeon’s leg. The ring carries crucial information about the origin and owner of the pigeon. Usually, the ring contains a serial number, a country code, and sometimes an additional code that may indicate the association or club where the pigeon was registered. For example, a pigeon with a ring from Romania will have a prefix that begins with “RO”, followed by a series of numbers.

What You Need to Know

  • Each pigeon ring is unique, providing information about the year of birth and the originating club.
  • The ring must be read very carefully to correctly identify the owner.
  • Pigeons with rings registered in different associations are subject to specific laws.
  • Increased attention to detail can make the difference between finding the owner and losing the pigeon again.
  • For older pigeons, the ring may indicate a different coding system than those used today.

How to Identify the Owner of the Pigeon

Once you’ve identified the ring, the next step is to search for it online. In Romania, there are several databases and online platforms where you can look for lost pigeons. You can start by visiting search for a pigeon by ring number. Enter the number from the pigeon’s ring, and you will be able to find out who it is registered to. This process is quite simple, especially if you have a clear and complete serial number.

You can also head to the official websites of pigeon racing associations, which usually have search functions for lost pigeons. For instance, the National Federation of Pigeon Racing in Romania has a dedicated platform where you can enter the details of the ring.

Useful Resources for Identification

Here are some online resources where you can check information about ringed pigeons:

  • Pigeon Racing Association of Romania
  • Local pigeon racing platforms
  • Specialised forums and Facebook groups
  • Websites of local pigeon clubs
Practical Tip: Many pigeon racing clubs have specialised websites where you can check the database of pigeons. Do not hesitate to contact your local club, which may assist you in this endeavour. Additionally, some breeders publish their contact information on social media, where you can seek help directly from the community.

What to Do If You Can't Find the Owner

If your research does not yield results, do not get discouraged. There are a few alternative ways to manage the situation. If you have access to GPS, you can use a GPS tracker for pigeons to monitor the behaviour of the pigeon after you bring it into your loft. Often, racing pigeons that have flown too far will have orientation problems and will stay close to the place where they have...