Why Does America Have So Many Pigeons?

Pigeons are a fixture in most American cities. The birds are native to North Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, but Europeans settlers brought them to North America in the 1600s as a source of food. According to experts, around 8 BC the birds were trained as messengers and by the 16th century, pigeons had reached the ultimate peak as hobbyists began breeding the birds for show. Business Insider reports that pigeons adapted quite easily from their native seaside cliff habitats as Americans began building structures that featured ledges which mimicked the cliffs in their native range, making these birds feel right home. Love them or hate them, pigeons have been a staple in America for centuries, and it doesn't look like their leaving anytime soon.