A homing pigeon is a type of bird known for its remarkable ability to find its way back to its home loft over long distances. These birds are a variety of the rock pigeon and have been selectively bred for their navigation skills. They can travel hundreds of miles and are often used in racing and messaging due to their strong homing instinct. Homing pigeons have a unique physiological structure that helps them navigate. They rely on visual cues, the Earth's magnetic field, and even the position of the sun to orient themselves. This ability has made them valuable in various historical contexts, including during wartime for delivering messages.