What do homing pigeons eat?

Homing pigeons, which are often trained as racing birds, need varied diets that include protein and minerals. A mix of grains, such as wheat, whole corn kernels and sorghum, combined with an adequate amount of leafy greens and a mineral supplement, will provide most of the nutrition that pigeons need.

Homing and racing pigeons should be given plenty of water along with a balanced diet of grains and greens. Pigeons also need grit, which is a mix of finely ground mineral supplements that usually includes calcium, salt, iron, manganese and zinc. Racing pigeons should not eat bread or other food scraps, as these will fill them up without providing adequate nutrition.