Racing Pigeon Sells For A Record-Breaking $1.9 Million At Auction

Topline

Belgian-bred pigeons are known as the best in the world of pigeon racing, but even seasoned breeding families were left stunned after an anonymous Chinese buyer swooped in to buy a female pigeon named New Kim for a whopping $1.9 million at auction Sunday.

Key Facts

Key Background

Once one of the country’s top interests, pigeon racing has become less popular in Belgium since the mid-twentieth century. The Belgian pigeon federation counts 18,000 members, a steep drop from the more than 250,000 registered just after the second World War, according to AP. However, Belgians are still regarded as the best pigeon breeders on earth, and have captured the attention of Chinese buyers. China’s economic rise has opened up new opportunities for recreational spending in the country, and pigeon racing has emerged as a popular gambling sport with winnings in the five-digits, AP reported. Before New Kim’s sale Sunday, the previous record holder was a male named Armando, another Belgian pigeon that went for nearly $1.5 million last year.

Further Reading

Belgian racing pigeon fetches record price of $1.9 million (Associated Press)

Belgian racing pigeon flies past record in auction (Reuters)