Fancy pigeon refers to any breed of domestic pigeon, which is a domesticated form of the wild rock dove (Columba livia). They are bred by pigeon fanciers for various traits relating to size, shape, color, and behavior,[1] and often exhibited at pigeon shows, fairs and other livestock exhibits.[2]
There are about 800 pigeon breeds; considering all regional varieties all over the world there may be 1100 breeds.[3] The European list of fancy pigeons alone names about 500 breeds.[4] No other domestic animal has branched out into such a variety of forms and colours.[5]
Charles Darwin is known to have crossbred fancy pigeons, particularly the ice pigeon, to study variation within species,[6] this work coming three years before his groundbreaking publication, On the Origin of Species.