Across the rooftops of Havana, men build communities around the pigeons that they breed. Pigeons are among the most popular pets in Cuba. They are easily domesticated and used for several different types of competitions. The “Buchon” pigeon is bred for a competition in which birds are trained to seduce and woo each other back to their owner’s coop. One small club of Buchon breeders, who call themselves the Gentlemen of the Truth, are working to advocate for animal safety and fair competition.

Music in this video was produced by Hermanos Morales from Las Terrazas in the Matanzas province.