WHAT IS THE SCIENTIFIC NAME FOR PIGEON? AND WHAT IS ITS CLASSIFICATION?
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer:
The scientific name for a common pigeon is Columba livia.
Classification:
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves
- Order: Columbiformes
- Family: Columbidae
- Genus: Columba
- Species: Columba livia
Explanation:
The pigeon, scientifically named Columba livia, is a bird that belongs to the class Aves, which includes all modern birds. This species is commonly known as the rock pigeon or rock dove. It is found in cities and rural areas around the world and is especially known for its ability to live in close association with humans.
Starting from the highest level, the pigeon belongs to the kingdom Animalia, which includes all animals. At the phylum level, it falls under Chordata, indicating that it has a backbone. The class Aves identifies it as a bird, characterized by feathers, a beak, and laying hard-shelled eggs.
Within Aves, pigeons belong to the order Columbiformes. This order consists of medium-sized birds that have stout bodies, short necks, and short slender bills with a fleshy cere. The family Columbidae includes all pigeons and doves. Members of this family share traits such as a strong flying ability, cooing vocalizations, and feeding their young with a substance called “pigeon milk” that is produced in their crop.
The genus Columba includes several species of pigeons and doves, and Columba livia is one of the most well-known among them. This species originally inhabited cliffs and rocky areas, but over time it adapted to urban environments. Humans have domesticated this species for thousands of years, leading to various breeds including homing and racing pigeons.
Its widespread presence and adaptability make the rock pigeon one of the most successful bird species in the world.