Pigeon Bones Found at an Ancient Cyprus Settlement Reveal That Our Relationship With These Birds Began Earlier Than We Thought
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A recent study reveals that humans have been in a relationship with pigeons for at least 3,400 years, pushing back the timeline of their domestication. Analysis of pigeon bones from an ancient settlement in Cyprus indicates that these birds were partially domesticated as early as 1400 B.C.E. This research challenges the perception of pigeons as mere urban pests and highlights their historical significance in human societies.
- ▪The study found that pigeons were domesticated around 1400 B.C.E., earlier than previously thought.
- ▪Chemical analysis of pigeon bones indicated that their diets were similar to those of humans in ancient Cyprus.
- ▪Many pigeon bones were found burned and buried in a ritual space, suggesting their significance in human feasts.
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Pigeon Bones Found at an Ancient Cyprus Settlement Reveal That Our Relationship With These Birds Began Earlier Than We Thought Before common pigeons were considered urban pests, people domesticated them and relied on them for meat, fertilizer, messages and more. A new study suggests humans have lived alongside the winged creatures for at least 3,400 years Sara Hashemi | Daily Correspondent May 29, 2026 10:00 a.m. ShareCopy linkEmailSMSFacebookXRedditLinkedInBlueskyPrintAdd as preferred source A limestone pigeon sculpture from Cyprus, dated between 600 and 480 B.C.E. Cesnola Collection of Cypriot Art at the New York Metropolitan Museum of Art If you live in a city, pigeons are probably part of your daily life.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Smithsonian Magazine.
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