Human–Bird Interactions

Abstract

The human–bird relationship is diverse and varies between cultures and within the same cultures over time. Humans have exploited various avian species for millennia, using them for many different purposes including their flesh and eggs as food, skins and feathers as clothing, egg shells and feathers (including whole taxidermied birds) as decorative items, feathers as quill pens or as fletching for arrows and darts. Their bones have been made into musical instruments, fishhooks and other artefacts, and their guano, feathers, and bones have been used as fertiliser. Birds have been targeted for subsistence and sport hunting. In addition, birds have served as pets, fictive family members, or tools in the hunt for other birds, fish and small mammals.