"carrier pigeon" 的定义和意义

What is a "carrier pigeon"?

A carrier pigeon, also known as a homing pigeon, is a remarkable avian messenger with a long history of service to human communication. These pigeons possess exceptional navigational skills and an innate ability to return to their home base from far-off locations. Bred and trained for centuries, carrier pigeons have been used as reliable messengers, carrying written messages securely tied to their legs or in small tubes attached to their bodies. Despite their small size, they have demonstrated remarkable feats, delivering critical messages during times of war, disaster, and exploration. The carrier pigeon's extraordinary homing instincts are believed to rely on a combination of celestial cues, magnetic fields, and familiar landmarks. They can cover great distances at impressive speeds, averaging around 50 to 60 kilometers per hour. With their invaluable service and unwavering loyalty, carrier pigeons hold a significant place in human history, symbolizing the remarkable partnership between humans and animals in the pursuit of communication.