An animal rights group recently purchased three retired racing pigeons from King Charles’s estate in Sandringham. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) claims pigeon racing is inhumane and urges King Charles to cut ties with the industry. The animal welfare campaigners also want the King to convert the pigeons loft into a sanctuary for rescued birds.
PETA argues that long-distance pigeon races have too high a fatality rate, and the birds are forced into exhaustive and disorientating flights. When the pigeons reach the English Channel, many do not survive, according to the campaigners. Chris Sutton, the CEO of the Royal Pigeon Racing Association, says that they oppose PETA’s statement that pigeon racing is a cruel sport. Mr Sutton argues that racing pigeons are intelligent birds, and their health and wellbeing are a priority.
PETA bought the pigeons earlier this year at a charity auction at which the sale of the King’s pigeons was advertised with a royal insignia. The animal-welfare group renamed the three retired pigeons “Vera, Cliff, and Dover” to honor the late Dame Vera Lynn, who was an opponent of pigeon racing. The pigeons are now in a sanctuary for birds in Wales.
A Sandringham spokesperson stated that the pigeon loft adheres to all the standards and regulations required. The loft, dating back to 150 years, has had a pigeon at Sandringham for that long. The spokesperson’s statement opposes PETA’s allegations that pigeon racing is a cruel pastime.
The animal-rights group would like the King to know that its purchase of the three retired pigeons is to prevent further suffering from cruelty. They believe that these magnificent birds deserve a better life in a sanctuary rather than being exploited for racing sport
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