Pigeon bird figurine statue virgin art Multi Poses 3D print model

Pigeon bird figurine statue virgin art Multi-Poses 3d Printable model

The pigeon, also known as Columba livia domestica or Columba livia forma domestica, is a subspecies that originated from the rock dove or rock pigeon. It is considered the oldest domesticated bird in the world. Historical records, such as Mesopotamian cuneiform tablets and Egyptian hieroglyphics, mention the domestication of pigeons over 5,000 years ago. It is believed that pigeons were domesticated in the Mediterranean region at least 3,000-5,000 years ago, possibly even earlier for their use as a food source. Recent research suggests that the domestication of pigeons may have occurred as early as 10,000 years ago.

Throughout history, pigeons have played various roles in human society, including as a source of food, pets, sacred animals, and messengers. Their homing ability has been utilized for delivering messages, particularly during times of war, such as the world wars. However, city pigeons, which are feral birds released for different reasons, are often considered pests due to their droppings. Feral pigeons are considered invasive in many parts of the world, although they do have a positive impact on wild bird populations by serving as prey for birds of prey.

The details of the initial domestication of pigeons remain largely unknown. It is unclear which subspecies of C. livia served as the progenitor of domesticated pigeons, as well as the exact timing, locations, and methods of domestication, and how they spread. The fragile nature of their bones and their similarity to wild birds make it difficult to study their domestication through the fossil record. Therefore, most of the knowledge about pigeon domestication comes from written accounts, which likely do not cover the earliest stages of domestication.

The earliest recorded mention of pigeons dates back to Mesopotamia around 5,000 years ago. Pigeon Valley in Cappadocia, known for its rock formations, contains ancient dovecotes that were carved into the rocks. Ancient Egyptians also kept large numbers of pigeons and would sacrifice tens of thousands of them for ritual purposes. Akbar the Great, a historical figure, also had a fascination with pigeons.