Photo ©2010–Mike Pennington
Click for a larger image
Recording ©2010 Stuart Fisher
Photo ©2010–Mike Pennington
Click for a larger image
Recording ©2010 Stuart Fisher
Rock Dove - Columba livia
Family - Columbidae
Also known as - Common Pigeon
The Rock Dove, sometimes called the "Common Pigeon", is one of the most common and widespread bird species in the world, often seen in urban areas, parks, and along coastlines. Typically 32–37cm (12.5–14.5in) in length, with a wingspan ranging from 64-72cm (25–28 in). Seen in a variety of colours, though the wild type is generally greyish-blue with two black bars on each wing. They have a slightly iridescent neck that can appear green or purple and the feet are typically red or pinkish in colour.
Native to cliffs and rocky habitats in Europe, North Africa, and South Asia, they have adapted well to urban environments with large feral populations often nesting on buildings, bridge structures, and other man-made features. Although the Rock Dove is the wild form of the bird; the pigeons familiar to most people are the domesticated forms of the wild Rock Dove. Nine subspecies are recognised.
They are omnivorous primarily eating seeds, grains, and fruits, but they will also take our food scraps, consequently they may damage structures via their droppings. Underfed birds can only excrete urates, which over time corrodes masonry and metal, however well-fed birds pass mostly solid faeces, containing only small amounts of uric acid. Generally gregarious, often seen in large flocks of several hundred, especially when foraging or roosting. Flight is strong and direct.
They typically mate for life, with both males ♂ and females ♀ taking turns incubating the eggs, with both building nests in sheltered locations. They can breed at any time of the year usually laying two eggs with an incubation period lasting around 17-19 days.
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