Around 700 homing pigeons are missing in South and Southern Jutland after becoming disoriented during a race held in Vejen. Approximately 35 owners are affected by this unusual incident.

The pigeons were released as part of a race where 900 young birds were meant to fly from Vejen back to North Jutland. However, a weather front with contrasting temperatures confused the pigeons, causing them to lose their way.

Instead of returning north, the pigeons have settled in the South and Southern Jutland areas. About 50 of the missing pigeons have been located in towns including Haderslev, Bramming, and Esbjerg.

Hans-Jørn Thomsen, a pigeon owner with over 40 years of experience, described the situation as unprecedented. “We have never experienced anything like this. It’s simply terrible,” he told DR. He added that he had difficulty sleeping due to the incident.

Thomsen is urging residents to contact the Danish Homing Pigeon Association if they encounter any of the lost pigeons.

During the same event, 500 older pigeons were released earlier and successfully navigated their way home.