Pigeon (Rock Dove)

Latin Name:

Columba livia

Appearance:

Feral pigeons have dark, blue-gray heads with glossy yellow, greenish and reddish-purple markings along their neck and wing feathers. The bill is grayish-pink. Two dark bands are usually seen on the wings and there is a single dark band across the tail.

Habit:

Pigeons walk or run with their heads bobbing forward and back. They fly in a direct path. They feed in the morning and early afternoon and take cover at night. The birds nest in large flocks. Feral pigeons nest in old farm buildings, with skyscrapers taking the place of natural cliff surroundings.

Diet:

Pigeons prefer seeds but will eat many things off open ground. Feral city pigeons consume popcorn, bread, cake, peanuts and more.

Reproduction:

Pigeons pair for life. The male builds the nest, where eggs hatch about 19 days after being laid. Both parents incubate the eggs, which vary in quantity.

Other:

Pigeons are considered the No. 1 pest by most urban residents. Pigeon predators include: opossums, raccoons, owls, eagles and sparrow hawks.