Fancy pigeons are a type of domestic pigeons, which are domesticated varieties of the wild rock dove (Columba livia). They are bred by pigeon fanciers for various traits relating to size, shape, color, and behavior,[1] who often exhibit their birds 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.