HOMING.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LV, Issue 166, 30 November 1912, Page 5

HOMING.

FLIGHT FROM DUNEDIN. The goal of the homer pigeon enthusiast of New Plymouth is to achieve success in. a fly from Dunedin, and many disappointments have been caused hitherto Tsy birds failing to return to their respective lofts, and the loss of birds that previously showed promise as good workers has been sustained. In spite of past failures, the New Plymouth East Plying Club decided to attempt the distance this season, and six members forwarded eighteen birds. These were consigned to Mr. W. Esquilan't, lion, secretary of the Dunedin Homing Club, for liberation at the first favorable opporhunity after arrival, and were liberated at 4.30 a.m. on the 9th inst., under favorable conditions—a clear sky and southwesterly wind prevailing at Dunedin. Rain fell at Christchurch during tlie morning, and Blenheim and Wellington weather reports were not encouraging, the wind having changed to north-west. The members competing hardly expected a bird to home on the day, but were on the qui vivo, in the event of a surprise. There was great excitement when the fust bird was reported home, being 11. J. Moverley's blue chequer Diabolo, this bird being "timed in" at 2.42 p.m. on the second day. having covered the distance of 004 miles in 24hr. 12niin. (after allowing hours of darkness, 7 p.m. to 5 a.m.), which constitutes a club record from Dunedin to New Plymouth. Three other birds have, since returned, being No. 177, No. 786 and No. 114, the last named being the winner of the Christchurch race this season. The four bilds that have successfully covered the distance are inmates of Mr. H. J. Moverley's loft. The winning bird, Diabolo, was bred by his owner in 1909, and has llown a total distance of 5400 miles during the past three years, including Russell and Dunedin, winning several races, besides securing prizes in the show pen. The club desire to thank Mr. Esquilant lor his kind attention to the birds.

A race is to take place to-day from Nelson, the birds being placed with Mr. G. King for liberation, the winner to become the possessor of a handsome medal, kindly donated by Mr. N. Greiner. jeweller.