Created by experimental hybridization of Eurasian rock pigeons (Columba livia) and African Cape turtle doves (Streptopelia capicola), the Africanized pigeon was originally intended to be a superior messenger, guano producer, and street food. With up to twice the white breast meat of ordinary pigeons, longer flight endurance, and a prodigious appetite, it would seem like the perfect pidge to fulfill these needs.

However, Africanized pigeons are also highly aggressive and invasive, attacking interlopers with claws, beak, and a “Stuka-like” dive bombing maneuver that has led to guano splattering across a target area of five square meters or more. This has led to them becoming widely feared and sensationalized, while preventing the predicted fast-food market from developing.

  • Like what you see? Purchase a print or ebook version!
Advertisement