China's million-dollar pigeon racing business | ITV News

Pigeon racing in China dates back to the Ming dynasty - but fuelled by the burgeoning middle classes, the hobby is seeing a resurgence in popularity.

There are around 100,000 pigeon breeders in Beijing alone, and the hobby now attracts the sort of money more commonly attached to thoroughbred horse racing - a million-dollar pigeon was sold to a Chinese businessman earlier this year.

The large sums in prize money mean it’s a highly competitive sport – pigeons often race thousands of miles, and not all make it home to roost.

Debi Edward explores the world of pigeon racing in China, talking to the passionate owners and pigeon trainers as well as those who question the welfare and safety of the sport.


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