How did pigeon peas get its name?

The name "pigeon pea" comes from the French word "pois d'angole", meaning "pea from Angola". The plant is not native to Angola but was introduced there by Portuguese traders in the 16th century. The name "pigeon pea" was first used in English in the 17th century. The name is thought to have come from the fact that pigeons are known to eat the seeds of the pigeon pea plant.