NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) — To most New Yorkers, pigeons are nothing more than disease-carrying nuisances, a staple of city life in the same class as subway rats.

Photo Gallery: National Pigeon Association Grand Champions

But there’s one group out there devoted to pigeon appreciation – and they’re proving that good looking pigeons actually exist.

The National Pigeon Association – yes, it exists – holds an annual Grand National pigeon show, and pictures from the latest event are circulating the Internet.

The largest of its kind, the contest features dressed-up, beautified birds so fancy looking, a typical New Yorker probably wouldn’t recognize the feathered creatures as the same species we step over on city sidewalks.

And hey, if you find yourself loving the pictures and wanting to get in on the fun, you can join the NPA.

What do you think of the pictures? Let us know…