Fun Fact

The Secret Life of Pigeons—Urban Geniuses in Disguise

We often overlook pigeons as common city birds, but they’re actually shockingly intelligent. Pigeons can recognize themselves in mirrors, making them one of the few non-mammals to pass the mirror test—a sign of self-awareness.

Studies have shown that pigeons can distinguish between different people’s faces, learn abstract rules, and even identify all 26 letters of the English alphabet. In wartime, they were once considered such valuable messengers that some received medals for their bravery in delivering critical intel.

So next time you see a pigeon bobbing along the sidewalk, don’t underestimate it—you’re looking at one of the most underrated geniuses of the animal world.