When Was the Last Animal Domesticated?

The vast majority of animals were domesticated more than 4,000 years ago, including llamas, silkworms, and honey bees. Since that time, fewer than fifty new animals have been domesticated. The animal most recently domesticated for companionship was the golden hamster, in 1930. The first golden hamster was captured in Syria and used as a lab animal.

More facts about animals:

• Among the first animals to be domesticated were dogs. It is estimated that dogs were first domesticated more than 16,000 years ago.


• The Aztec civilization kept turkeys as domestic fowl since well before the 14th century.


• Guinea pigs have been domesticated for over 7,000 years. They were used both for food and traditional medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most recently domesticated animal?

The fox is one of the most recent examples of domestication. Russian scientists, notably Dmitry Belyaev, began an experiment in the 1950s that continues today, selectively breeding foxes to exhibit friendly behaviors towards humans. This ongoing study at the Institute of Cytology and Genetics in Novosibirsk has provided insights into the genetic changes involved in domestication.

How long does the process of animal domestication typically take?

Domestication is not a quick process; it spans generations. The time it takes can vary widely depending on the species and the traits being selected. For instance, the domestication of dogs from wolves likely took thousands of years. In contrast, the Russian fox experiment has shown significant behavioral changes within just 50 years, thanks to rigorous selective breeding.

Are there any animals currently being domesticated?

Yes, there are ongoing efforts to domesticate animals even today. Besides the Russian fox experiment, there are projects aimed at domesticating wild animals for conservation, agriculture, or companionship purposes. However, these efforts are complex and require a deep understanding of genetics, behavior, and ecology to ensure they are done ethically and sustainably.

Why are some animals more difficult to domesticate than others?

Some animals are more challenging to domesticate due to factors like diet, breeding habits, temperament, and social structure. For example, animals with specialized diets are harder to keep in captivity, while those with aggressive or skittish temperaments are less likely to tolerate human interaction. Additionally, animals that do not breed well in captivity present significant challenges to domestication efforts.

What are the benefits of domesticating a new animal species?

Domesticating a new animal species can have various benefits, such as providing new sources of food, fiber, or labor. It can also contribute to conservation efforts by ensuring the survival of endangered species under human care. Moreover, domesticated animals can serve as models for scientific research, helping us understand genetics, behavior, and disease.

How does domestication affect the genetics of an animal?

Domestication leads to genetic changes that often result in traits favorable for coexistence with humans. According to studies, domesticated animals tend to show reductions in fear and aggression, changes in coat color, and sometimes smaller brain sizes compared to their wild counterparts. These genetic changes are the result of selective breeding for specific traits over many generations.