The Economics of Everyday Things 61. Pigeons
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Aug 26, 2024 Once revered, pigeons now pose challenges for cities as they adapt to urban life. Their historical significance, from ancient civilizations to wartime messengers, showcases a fascinating bond with humans. The podcast explores the pigeon racing community's financial dynamics, contrasting it with the issues of feral populations. Urban pigeons impact city ecosystems and infrastructure, prompting both control efforts and a reevaluation of their role as companions and athletes—raising questions about their place in our cities.
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From Revered to Reviled
- Pigeons, now considered pests, were once revered and worshipped as fertility goddesses.
- White doves, released at weddings, are simply white-colored pigeons, highlighting their contrasting image.
Pigeon History and Abilities
- Pigeons are the world's oldest domesticated bird, used for food and fertilizer in ancient times.
- Their intelligence and homing instincts led to their use as message carriers, flying up to 1,000 miles.
Reuter's Pigeon News
- Paul Julius Reuter used pigeons to deliver stock prices between Belgium and Germany in 1851, filling a gap in the telegraph line.
- This innovative use of pigeons marked the beginning of Reuter's news service.
