Core Points - The article discusses the significance of peace doves, which are actually homing pigeons, in national celebrations and their remarkable navigation abilities [4][8][12] Group 1: Historical Context - The concept of the peace dove originated from Picasso's artwork in 1949, symbolizing peace and friendship globally [8] - In the founding ceremony of the People's Republic of China in 1949, 15,000 homing pigeons were donated by citizens, creating a memorable scene [8] - The use of homing pigeons in significant events has evolved, with technological advancements such as GPS tracking and precise synchronization in recent ceremonies [8][10] Group 2: Navigation Abilities - Homing pigeons possess an extraordinary innate ability to navigate, akin to having a built-in GPS system, allowing them to return home from distances up to 3,000 kilometers [12][14] - Their navigation capabilities are attributed to several factors, including magnetic sensing, solar positioning, visual landmarks, and olfactory maps [14][16] Group 3: Training and Performance - Rigorous training is essential for homing pigeons to enhance their homing instincts, with various training methods employed to improve their performance [17][19] - The training includes home flying, distance training, and environmental adaptation to ensure they can navigate effectively under different conditions [19][21] Group 4: Communication Role - Historically, homing pigeons have served as vital communication tools, delivering messages during wars and significant events, showcasing their importance beyond being symbols of peace [22][24] - Their role in military communication persists, as they can transmit information in areas where electronic signals are unreliable [26] Group 5: Differences from Ordinary Pigeons - Homing pigeons differ from ordinary pigeons in several aspects, including body structure, eye characteristics, navigation systems, and homing instincts, which contribute to their superior flying capabilities [27][30][32][33]