What type of bird is known to fly faster than many upland or migratory birds?

Domestic pigeons are known for their remarkable speed and endurance, especially when it comes to flying over long distances. Pigeons can reach speeds of 60 miles per hour (97 kilometers per hour) or more in level flight, which can outpace many upland or migratory birds. Their strong, muscular bodies and efficient wing structure allow them to maintain such speeds over significant distances.

While red-tailed hawks and kestrels are both swift and agile birds, their speeds typically do not exceed those of domestic pigeons in a sustained manner. Red-tailed hawks are known for their soaring capabilities and hunting strategies rather than sheer speed, while kestrels, although they exhibit impressive aerial techniques like hovering, are also generally not as fast as domestic pigeons in straight flight. House sparrows, being smaller birds, have different flight characteristics and do not possess the same level of speed or endurance as domestic pigeons.

This context highlights the unique abilities of domestic pigeons in terms of speed, particularly when compared to other bird species mentioned.