People's Perception of Domestic Pigeon (Columba livia) in South-West, Nigeria
Abstract
Exploring alternative protein sources has become crucial in addressing the shortage of animal protein, especially impacting vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women in Southwest, Nigeria. Fast-growing, short-cycle poultry species such as domestic pigeons emerge as potential contributors due to their prolific breeding, rapid growth, and low maintenance requirements. However, traditional, cultural, and religious attitudes in South-West, Nigeria hinders the utilization of pigeons as food despite their superlative characteristics and nutritional values. This study employed the use of questionnaires containing a 3-point Likert square to investigate people's perceptions about pigeons among 810 pigeon producers, sellers, consumers, and other stakeholders in the region. The result which were analyzed descriptively revealed that socio-economic characteristics such as age, gender, education, and primary occupation may have influenced people's perceptions of pigeons in the area. Despite these challenges, there is optimism that pigeon farming could significantly contribute to the economic and nutritional development of people in the region. Achieving this requires community engagement, education, extension, and market strategies to enhance wider acceptance and integration of pigeons into the broader poultry practices. This integration can contribute to addressing protein deficiencies and promoting food security in the region.