Racing pigeons are among the world most numerous working birds, and while many receive dedicated care, the sport involves welfare risks from racing conditions and a large surplus of unwanted birds.
Racing pigeons receive varying quality of care depending on the dedication and knowledge of individual keepers. Well-kept racing lofts provide excellent nutrition, veterinary care, and social housing. The sport itself introduces risks including race mortality, weather exposure, and predator attacks. The welfare challenge is most acute for unwanted birds — losers from race mortality and culling practices for non-performing pigeons are significant welfare concerns that receive little attention.