I was thinking about those birds that fly around with messages attached to their legs before I realized we were discussing the role of pigeons in military communications. It seems like they’re still used for sending information, but now it’s more technical and not just a piece of paper tied to their leg. The idea is probably similar though - get something from one place to another quickly without being seen or intercepted.
pigeons may be cheap but their utility lies elsewhere perhaps its worth considering what they bring beyond mere cost.
pigeon droppings are technical fertilizer.