Pigeons and humans have had a 'love-hate relationship' since 1400 BCE

The common city pigeon, often seen as a nuisance, shares a long and complex history with humans, dating back to at least 1400 BCE during the Late Bronze Age, according to recent research. While pigeons appear in ancient texts like the Bible and Greek mythology, new findings suggest their domestication began much earlier than previously thought.

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The analysis of pigeon remains found at the 'Hala Sultan Tekke' archaeological site in the southeastern port city of Cyprus suggests that Bronze Age pigeons around 1400 BCE were already closely symbiotic with humans and in a semi-domesticated state.

Archaeological analysis of pigeon remains found at the Hala Sultan Tekke site in Cyprus, a key hub for Mediterranean trade between Egypt and Turkey during the Late Bronze Age, indicates a close symbiotic relationship between humans and rock doves (Columba livia). Researchers estimate that at least 55 rock doves were present, with 82% of the identified adult bird bones belonging to mature individuals. The presence of juvenile bird bones suggests that local populations actively bred and managed these pigeons.

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Some of the bones were of young pigeons, suggesting that residents may have actively bred and managed the birds themselves.

Further analysis of nitrogen and carbon content in the bones revealed that the pigeons' diet was largely composed of grains and seeds provided or dropped by humans, rather than solely relying on natural food sources. This dietary pattern, similar to that of domesticated cattle, indicates a consistent feeding regimen within specific areas, pointing towards a semi-domesticated state.

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This study provides strong evidence that pigeon domestication may have begun much earlier than previously thought.

Interestingly, a significant portion of the pigeon bones were discovered in religious or ritualistic spaces, not exclusively in urban residential areas. Some bones showed signs of burning and were found alongside other animal bones and elaborate tableware, suggesting pigeons were used as ritual offerings. In Cyprus, a region associated with the worship of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, pigeons were often depicted with her, reinforcing their symbolic significance. This research challenges the negative perception of pigeons prevalent since the Industrial Revolution, highlighting their deep historical connection to human civilization.

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The existence of pigeons everywhere in the world today is because humans intentionally bred them. I hope this study serves as an opportunity to reconsider the negative perception of pigeons.