The Anthropocene is marked by the impact we humans have had on the Earth. For the most part, this is the first era that has been defined by relatively negative connotations, as the world is not simply changing and affecting its inhabitants, but the inhabitants have been affecting our world (and not in a good way).

Flying Rats: An Ode to the Pigeon is a reflection on a so-called “minor” effect that humans have had on the pigeon species. Beginning in the 5th century BCE, we began to use pigeon carriers as a form of long-distance communication, and it was not until the 1950s that we abandoned that system for new technology.

In those 24 centuries we trained the pigeon to behave to our will, domesticating it and changing the species behavior forever. This “minor” effect has instilled biological repercussions on the pigeon, who nowadays are COMPLETELY reliant on humans for survival. And how do we treat them? Like trash, like a nuisance, like rodents, like flying rats. We kick and shoo them away like they have done something wrong when they are the real victims.

My hope is to not only bring this issue to light but highlight other “minor” effects that we have had on the Earth and its species during our time in the Anthropocene.

Let us bring some dignity back to our dear friends: the Pigeons.