The Jacobin pigeon is one of approximately 350 breeds of domesticated pigeon around the world. Most such breeds descend from the wild rock pigeon (Columba livia).

Pigeon fanciers have created different breeds to suit a variety of desires over hundreds of years. The birds range from homing pigeons that can stay aloft for more than 20 hours to acrobatic breeds that tumble in mid-flight and fancy show pigeons like the Jacobin, with outrageous feather features and colors.

—By Jane J. Lee, photo gallery by Sherry L. Brukbacher