Pigeons are intelligent and can identify humans by appearance and behaviour.

They can also learn to recognise the the English alphabet and distinguish dozens of words.

They can navigate vast distances using the earth's magnetic field and radio waves and have their own internal GPS system.

They are also able to understand the concept of probability, the first non-primate to do so.

They are models of fidelity, mate for life, and both parents take turns in devotedly caring for their young.

In both world wars tens of thousand were maimed or killed carrying vital messages and saved thousands of lives.

The first animal Dickin Medal was awarded to a pigeon.

Any act of human kindness should never be ridiculed or denigrated.

Where would the human race stand if judged for the cruelty, damage and mess we cause?

Janet Benfield

Tey Road, Earls Colne