Columba

Pigeons are a successful and adaptable group of birds. They are highly sociable and very intelligent. Pigeons are one of a small amount of species that can pass the “mirror test” – they have self recognition. Most pigeons seen in the United States are feral rock doves. These birds make their homes in a variety of places throughout the world. Pigeons can be very invasive, damage property, and spread disease. A few of the diseases are E. coli, St. Louis encephalitis, Histoplasmosis, Candidiasis, and Salmonellosis. There are about 175 species of pigeons.

Identification – What do pigeons look like?

Pigeons vary in color but commonly have a dark bluish-gray head, gray body with a whitish rump, two black bars on the wing feathers, a broad black band on the tail and red feet. They are about 11 inches tall and weight about 13 ounces.

Habitat and Habits of pigeons

Pigeons live in almost every environment on earth except the high Arctic and Antarctic regions. In the wild, pigeons build their nests on the faces of cliffs and inside caves. In the urban areas, pigeons use tall buildings made by humans to roost, loaf, and build nests. In rural and suburban areas, pigeons move into open barns, homes, under bridges, and around any other available human structure. They have two legs and two wings. Pigeons live approximately 3 to 6 for years in the wild and up to 15 years in captivity. Pigeons mate for life as long as both birds are alive. Most pigeons will attempt to raise several broods a year.

Diet – What do pigeons eat?

Pigeons are granivores. They like to eat seeds and grains. Pigeons also eat fruit, greens, and food left by people – especially bread crumbs and fast food waste. They rarely eat insects.

Pigeon Control – How to get rid of pigeons?

Rocky Mountain Bird and Pest offers a variety bird control solutions including wire barriers, spikes, netting, and shock. Exclusion is the best method for eliminating pigeons.