The Domestication of Pigeons

Research suggests that the domestication of pigeons occurred as early as 10,000 years ago. Pigeons have been bred for various purposes, including messenger and carrier abilities, as well as for exhibition purposes. Different breeds and colors of pigeons have been developed through selective breeding over the centuries.

In ancient Persia, pigeons were first trained for use as messengers. They were also used as messengers by the Mesopotamians and Egyptians, particularly during times of war. The use of pigeons as messengers continued throughout history, with pigeons being trusted and efficient messengers.

The Extinction of the Passenger Pigeon

The passenger pigeon (Ectopistes migratorius) was once one of the most abundant birds in the world. In the early 1800s, its population was estimated to be at least three billion birds, making it a dominant species in North America. However, by the early 20th century, the passenger pigeon became extinct, with the last known individual dying in 1914.

The extinction of the passenger pigeon was primarily due to human actions. Overhunting for meat and feathers, as well as habitat destruction by European settlers, led to the rapid decline of the species. The passenger pigeon’s population was further affected by the loss of their natural food sources, such as acorns and beechnuts, due to changes in forest ecosystems.

Recent genetic research on passenger pigeon specimens from museum collections suggests that the species had a tendency for boom-and-bust cycles in population size. The birds experienced dramatic fluctuations in population, with estimates ranging from 50,000 to 330,000 breeding individuals at various points in history.

Pigeons in Agriculture and Culture

Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan), also known as toor, red gram, or Congo pea, is a legume grown in tropical and semitropical regions across the Old and New Worlds. While it is a relatively recent crop in the New World, pigeon pea has a long history of cultivation in South Asia and western and central Africa. It has been an important staple crop for these regions and the African diaspora in the Caribbean.

In addition to their agricultural importance, pigeons have also played cultural roles throughout history. They have been kept as pets, trained for racing, and bred for exhibition purposes. Pigeon fancying, particularly in the Victorian era in England, became a popular hobby. The connection between nobles and pigeons began to wane in the 18th century, but the interest in pigeons as pets and for racing continues to this day.

Overall, pigeons have had a significant impact on various aspects of human history, from agriculture to communication, and they continue to be admired and studied for their unique characteristics and behaviors.