Managing Pigeons

Pigeons, more accurately named rock doves (Columbalivia), are common in cities and towns around the world. The birds thrive alongside humans as we provide them with a plentiful supply of food and nesting locations. Humans have domesticated the birds for thousands of years using them to carry messages between communities. Pigeons have been used by military forces as messenger and surveillance birds. Humans have, and still do, utilize the birds as a human food source, as racing birds, fancy birds selected for size, shape, color, and behavior, and as cherished pets.