Skopje pigeon fanciers find calm among city blocks

Pigeon fanciers in Skopje say their birds bring calm and community to a plaza surrounded by apartment blocks in North Macedonia's capital.

Ahmet Ogun, a 67-year-old jeweller, and Bonco Lazarevski, a 76-year-old former steel mill worker, keep a flock of around 80 pigeons that fly from a loft for morning exercise.

Lazarevski said the birds offer peace in a setting of buildings, cars and daily city traffic. Ogun said caring for the pigeons calms his nerves and described the birds as if they were his children.

Among the birds is the Macedonian Spinner, a sports pigeon known by its keepers for aerial acrobatics.

Pigeon fancying has a long tradition in North Macedonia, often passed down through families. Owners say the birds are able to travel long distances and cope with hot Balkan summers if given more water and frequent cage openings.

Neighbours say the hobby brings people together, with residents and other keepers gathering to talk and share advice.