Columba Domestica Collection

Darwins Pigeons, English Pouter
Figure 18, Original line drawing from the book Variation in Animals and Plants under Domestication by Charles Darwin, 1868. Library reference number DC BD 858 (Vol.1) Date: 1868

Darwins Pigeons, Short-faced English Tumbler
Figure 23, Original drawing from the book Variation in Animals and Plants under Domestication by Charles Darwin, 1868. Library reference number DC BD 858 (Vol. 1) Date: 1868

Darwins Pigeons, African Owl
Figure 22, Original drawing from the book Variation in Animals and Plants under Domestication by Charles Darwin, 1868. Library reference number DC BD 858 (Vol. 1) Date: 1868

Darwins Pigeons, English Fantail
Figure 21, Original drawing from the book Variation in Animals and Plants under Domestication by Charles Darwin, 1868. Library reference number DC BD 858 (Vol. 1) Date: 1868

Darwins Pigeons, English Barb
Figure 20, Original line drawing from the book Variation in Animals and Plants under Domestication by Charles Darwin, 1868. Library reference number DC BD 858 (Vol. 1) Date: 1868

Darwins Pigeons, English Carrier
Figure 19, Original line drawing from the book Variation in Animals and Plants under Domestication by Charles Darwin, 1868. Library reference number DC BD 858 (Vol. 1) Date: 1868

Pouter, domestic pigeon
This pigeon is from the collection of domestic pigeons donated to the Natural History Museum by Charles Darwin in 1867. The bird probably came from Darwins own aviaries

Roller Tumbler, domestic pigeon
This pigeon is from the collection of domestic pigeons donated to the Natural History Museum by Charles Darwin in 1867. The bird probably came from Darwins own aviaries

Fancy domestic pigeons
Mounted fancy pigeon varieties, similar to those studied by Charles Darwin as he developed his ideas on evolution through natural selection

Columba livia, Jjacobine pigeon (domestic)
Watercolour by Edward Lear (c. 1835), Charles Darwin estimated that there were 150 different species of domestic pigeons

Columba livia, domestic pigeon
Watercolour by unknown artist (c. 1850). Originally illustrated in one of five volumes bought by the Natural History Museum by an unknown source from Japan

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"Columba domestica: The Fascinating World of Darwin's Pigeons and Fancy Domestic Varieties" Discover the captivating world of Columba domestica, commonly known as domestic pigeons. These remarkable birds have been selectively bred for centuries, resulting in a wide array of unique and beautiful varieties. Among them are the famous "Darwin's Pigeons, " which include the elegant English Pouter with its elongated body and proud posture. Another member is the Short-faced English Tumbler, renowned for its acrobatic mid-air somersaults. The African Owl stands out with its distinctive feathered head resembling an owl's face, while the English Fantail mesmerizes with its graceful fan-shaped tail. The diversity continues with breeds like the English Barb, characterized by its striking color patterns and feathery crest. Equally impressive is the English Carrier pigeon, known for its exceptional homing abilities over long distances. Not to be forgotten are other fancy domestic pigeons such as the Pouter - a breed admired for its inflated crop that creates an eye-catching appearance. Additionally, there are Roller Tumblers that showcase their tumbling skills during flight. Even beyond these specific breeds lies another fascinating variety called Columba livia or Jacobine pigeon – a domestic descendant from wild rock doves found across Europe and Asia. This particular breed exhibits distinct features like a ruffled neck collar reminiscent of medieval fashion.