Poultry
Columba livia domestica
A tier
Columba livia domestica is the domestic pigeon and squab lineage descended from rock doves—the species-level label covering meat breeds such as King and Mondain as well as general farm pigeons. Young squabs yield dark, rich, tender meat with a fine grain and little of the toughness of old wild birds. Roast or pan-sear breast rare to medium; confit or braise legs. The Latin name appears in technical specs when breed is unspecified.
Also known as: Domestic pigeon, Columba livia domestica
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Characteristics
Preparations
Traits
History
Rock doves were domesticated in the Middle East for food and message use.
Roman agriculture included pigeon towers for meat.
Named utility breeds refined C. l. domestica for squab production.
Domestic pigeon remained the basis of global squab farming.