pigeons
1. Bird Name
The pigeon or more commonly referred to as the Rock Pigeon, carries the scientific name Columba livia.
2. Appearance
Despite the pigeon’s popular depiction as a uniform, grey bird, they can exhibit a surprising amount of variations in their coloration. From slate grey to white, tan, and even a deep charcoal; sometimes a varied mix of these hues. Uniquely, they are identified by their iridescent neck feathers that shimmer in sunlight displaying a green and purple sheen. They possess a roundish body with a short neck and beak. Pigeon eye color ranges from orange to a fiery red. There is little difference in appearance between males and females, although males are usually slightly larger.
3. Size
A fully-grown pigeon averages a length of approximately 32 to 37 centimeters (approximately 13-14.5 inches). They typically possess a wingspan of 62 to 68 centimeters (24.4-26.7 inches) across. Adult pigeons usually weigh between 238 to 380 grams (about 8.4-13.4 ounces).
4. Habitat & Distribution
Pigeons have the largest distribution of any bird in the world. They originated from Eurasia and North Africa but humans have helped them spread to all continents, except for Antarctica. Pigeons usually inhabit woodlands, cliff sides, and coastal areas, albeit they’ve adapted exceptionally well to urban environments.
5. Interesting Facts
Pigeons have an inherent ability for homing and have consequently been used throughout history as messenger birds. Another fascinating fact is their capacity to recognize themselves in a mirror, suggesting self-awareness, a trait rare in animals. Additionally, the pigeon’s cultural significance is notable; they are symbols of peace and love in various cultures.
6. Diet
Pigeons are predominantly grain and seed eaters. The diet of a pigeon includes seeds, berries, fruits, and rarely, small insects or worms.
7. Behavior & Sounds
Pigeons are social birds often found in pairs or residing in larger flocks. The birds are monogamous, meaning once they select a partner, they mate for life. Their call is typically a soft cooing sound, noted to be soothing by many. Furthermore, pigeons are known for their unusual flight pattern, featuring periods of gliding interspersed with flapping.
8. Conservation Status
According to the IUCN Red List, Pigeons are evaluated as a species of least concern given their vast global population.
9. Lifespan
In the wild, pigeons typically have a lifespan of 3 to 5 years due to predated threats and environmental factors. However, in captivity or when domesticated, these birds may live to be up to 15 years old.
10. Additional Notes
Commonly referred to as ‘rats with wings’ due to their ubiquity and sometimes being considered pests, they still possess an extraordinary ability of navigation and their contributions during wartime as message carriers merit recognition. Their feces are also proven beneficial in vegetation because of nitrogen content which aids plant growth. In other languages, pigeons are known as paloma (Spanish), Taube (German), pigeon (French), pombo (Portuguese), and piccione (Italian). In urban ecosystems, pigeons often fill the same niche that small doves or other such birds would in undeveloped areas. They are also an important food source for a lot of urban predators, such as hawk.
