Rock Dove / Feral Pigeon

The wild Rock Dove lives on coastal cliffs. Its descendant, the Feral Pigeon, is a successful urban animal. The wild form is blue-grey with two black wing-bars and a white rump. Urban birds show many colors including white and mottled patterns. They depend on human food and structures for nesting. They can breed almost all year round if food is available.

Pigeons are famous for their homing ability and rapid flight. They are highly social and gather in large flocks in cities. The male's courtship display involves puffing his neck feathers, bowing, and turning in circles. He makes a deep, rolling 'coo-roo-coo' sound. In cities, they have become generalist scavengers.