France's military pigeons race in memory of brave predecessors

THESE days, French military pigeon number 193-529 is no longer needed to carry tiny messages during wartime communication blackouts.

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But the racing bird serves as a reminder of the brave service of its predecessors in World Wars I and II, and the 1870 siege of Paris.

Inside Europe's last military pigeon loft, Sergeant Sylvain cradled 193-529, an alert feathered athlete with an iridescent green neck.

"He's a carrier pigeon, like the ones who served in World Wars I and II," said Sylvain, withholding his surname for security purposes.

"But today he races," added the member of the armed forces, whose grandfather was also a pigeon fancier.

In Mont Valerien outside Paris, Sylvain flits between dovecotes, tending to some 200 pigeons cleaning their shelters and making sure they have enough to eat.

These days, they only use their navigating skills when they are released during competitions, military ceremonies, or demonstrations for visitors, he said.