When radios and telephone lines failed, the couriers of the sky swooped in to transport vital messages across air, land, and sea. These feathered messengers are known as “carrier pigeons.” A handful of these birds were bestowed hero status as a reward for their valiant efforts. They could alter the course of war, all while stealing the hearts of many. And yet, today, many folk view pigeons as diseased pests. And while that may be true at times, their heroic past should not be veiled by the animal’s nature.
From Feathered Heroes to Flying Rats – OPINION
A pigeon carries a message around its neck while another pecks at the ground, mocked by a passerby.
September 26, 2025
More to Discover
About the Contributor
Integra Christensen, Editorial Cartoonist
Integra Christensen is a 17-year-old junior at Atlantic High School and a member of the AHS Journalism team. She contributes to this team as the editorial cartoonist. She first got into journalism because her “sister recommended it.” Christensen states that she “Just really likes journalism a lot.” Her favorite memory is just anytime she gets to make cartoons and because she finds drawing therapeutic. Overall, she just “loves journalism.” She has really grown as an artist and overall journalist this year. She also helps the broadcasting team by producing and editing videos for them.
Outside of journalism, she loves making art, playing games, editing, reading, and writing. She also really loves writing stories, broadcasting, and just overall journalism. Her older sister, Trinity, is 20 years old. Christensen also said she is very close to her mom. In the future, she hopes for a career that involves arts and editing in some way, shape, or form. She is very excited for this journalism year and to see how much she can accomplish!
Bio By: Claire Comes