It's pretty amazing that homing pigeons can find their way back home—even when transported vast distances and then released. In fact, homing pigeons are known to have made trips as long as 1,100 miles (1,770 km) to get back home, flying at speeds of up to 110 mph (177 kph). Although they are famous for carrying messages for the military in small tubes during the wars of the 20th century, they began their work for humans more than 850 years ago! In this introduction to homing pigeons, readers will learn about the various jobs these pigeons have been used for, along with profiles of some of the most famous of their breed. The fascinating pictures and text are sure to engage your emergent readers and fill them with amazement at the abilities of these unique birds.