Pigeons and doves
Rock Pigeon
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Columba livia
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Voice
Call
Call
Song
How to recognize it
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Clearly larger than a sparrow
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City plumage varies; grey forms show two dark wing bars and a pale rump
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Metallic green or purple sheen on the neck; head-bobbing while walking
About the species
In its classic city coloring, the Rock Pigeon is blue-grey, with a darker head and neck that flash green or purple in the light. Two black bars cross each wing, and a pale patch above the tail shows when it turns. City plumage can vary widely, from nearly white to brown or patterned.
On the ground, it walks with a steady head-bob, picking up seeds and scraps alone or in a loose crowd. Its low, wavering coo — "crruoo-u" — is common around ledges and courtyards; takeoffs add a sudden clap of wings. During courtship, a male puffs out his neck, bows and turns in front of a female.
Cliffs and rock ledges are its natural nesting places, and rooftops, bridges and building recesses offer similar sheltered spots in towns. It feeds mostly on seeds and grains, taking fruit and food scraps when available. It is mostly resident, though in high mountains it may move down into valleys in colder weather.
Did you know?
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Blind navigation
A rock pigeon with its eyes sealed shut, deprived of any landmarks to read, can fly hundreds of miles home and brake to a stop directly above its own loft.
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Sensing what humans cannot
Rock pigeons navigate by integrating signals invisible to humans — polarised and ultraviolet light, Earth's magnetic field, and infrasound too low for our ears.
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Where to find
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In busy open spaces where crumbs or grain are left, Rock Pigeons feed on the ground in flocks.
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In city parks, watch a male puff up his neck, bow and coo as he follows a female.
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By bridges and beneath roof eaves, look for nests tucked into sheltered gaps.
