In all of history, humankind has been able to domesticate only twenty-five mammals, a dozen or so birds, and, possibly, a lizard.
This quote from Charles C. Mann's 1493: Uncovering the New World Columbus Created highlights a fascinating aspect of human interaction with the animal kingdom: the relatively limited scope of species that humans have successfully domesticated throughout history. Despite our species' incredible resourcefulness and adaptability, the list of animals that have become truly domesticated remains surprisingly short. This brings to mind the unique requirements and traits that animals must possess to be...