Pigeons swarmed city streets, and children often used them for play or profit. Feeding, chasing, or racing pigeons taught timing, coordination, and urban navigation. Some children raised pigeons as pets, attaching small messages or counting their flights. These activities enhanced observation skills and responsibility. Vendors sometimes sold grain to encourage pigeon gatherings, creating mini-economies. Interaction with pigeons also introduced rudimentary animal behavior lessons. The ubiquitous birds became a central element of daily street life.
Pigeons encouraged interaction with animals, observation, and street economy skills.
It shows how urban wildlife contributed to childhood play and learning.
Did you know some children held pigeon races where points were awarded for longest flight or trick maneuvers?
[National Geographic, nationalgeographic.com]