RCW 9.61.190
Carrier or racing pigeons -- Injury to.

It is a class 1 civil infraction for any person, other than the owner thereof or his authorized agent, to knowingly shoot, kill, maim, injure, molest, entrap, or detain any Antwerp Messenger or Racing Pigeon, commonly called "carrier or racing pigeons", having the name of its owner stamped upon its wing or tail or bearing upon its leg a band or ring with the name or initials of the owner or an identification or registration number stamped thereon.

[1987 c 456 § 25; 1963 c 69 § 1.]

Wildlife, Wild Animal Nuisances

I recently contacted a DNR investigator concerning some hunters shooting Racing Pigeons.
I was told the Racing Pigeon (once released) for a race becomes fair game, so in reality, these birds are only protected while in there lofts.
Federally protect all pigeons or none at all.

BrokenWing