Columba Livia Domestica Collection

Common Wood Pigeon -Columba palumbus- perched on a branch, Baltic Sea island of Fehmarn, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, Europe

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

Feral pigeon -Columba livia-

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

Street pigeon -Columba livia forma domestica-

Pigeons taking flight from the snow-covered roof of a barn, Eckenhaid, Eckental, Middle Franconia, Bavaria, Germany

Rock Dove (Columba livia domestica), feral pigeon standing on earthenware post

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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The Common Wood Pigeon, also known as Columba palumbus, gracefully perches on a branch amidst the serene Baltic Sea island of Fehmarn in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. This elegant bird is just one of the many fascinating species within the Columba livia domestica family. Among these captivating pigeons are Darwins Pigeons, each possessing its own unique charm. The English Pouter showcases an elongated body and an impressive inflated crop that sets it apart from the rest. Meanwhile, the Short-faced English Tumbler captivates with its distinctive short beak and mesmerizing aerial acrobatics. Another member of this diverse family is the African Owl pigeon, which boasts striking feather patterns resembling those of an owl. Equally enchanting is the English Fantail pigeon with its extravagant tail fanning out like a beautiful peacock's display. The English Barb pigeon stands out with its distinctively shaped head and vibrant plumage that catches everyone's attention. On the other hand, we have the regal English Carrier pigeon renowned for its exceptional homing instincts and remarkable endurance. While some pigeons have been domesticated over time to become beloved pets or show birds, others have adapted to urban environments as feral or street pigeons. These resilient creatures can be found soaring through cityscapes worldwide. In winter landscapes such as Eckenhaid in Bavaria, Germany, these hardy birds take flight from snow-covered roofs against a picturesque backdrop. Their ability to thrive even in harsh conditions demonstrates their resilience and adaptability. One particular subspecies within this family is known as Rock Dove or Columba livia domestica—a feral pigeon standing confidently on an earthenware post captures our attention. Its rugged beauty serves as a reminder of how nature persists even in man-made surroundings. Lastly, we encounter another stunning variety called Pouter—a domestic pigeon admired for its exaggerated chest and elegant posture.