[see prec. 4.] A breed of pigeons in which the instinct for finding the way home is very strongly developed, used for bearing communications or letters. Also fig.
1647. R. Stapylton, Juvenal, 66. Letters brought by carryer-pidgeons. Ibid. (1650), Strada’s Low-C. Warres, VII. 74. The antient invention of Carrier-Pidgeons.
1840. Bp. E. Stanley, Birds, v. Carrier Pigeons. These are a particular breed, which can be so trained, that when carried to great distances from the place of their usual abode, and turned out, they will find their way back.
1871. Tegetmeier (title), Homing, or Carrier Pigeon.
a. 1856. Longf., Childr. Lord’s Supper, 157. Prayer … the carrier-pigeon of heaven.
