Homing pigeons, also known as carrier pigeons, are a breed of domestic pigeons that have an extraordinary ability to find their way back to their home lofts over long distances. They possess a strong sense of direction, which is believed to be linked to their keen eyesight and ability to detect the Earth's magnetic fields. These birds have been used for centuries for communication, especially during wartime, due to their reliability. Homing pigeons can fly at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour and can navigate distances of over 1,000 miles, making them valuable messengers in various situations.