Common Wood-Pigeon
NameCommon Wood-Pigeon
Common NameCommon Wood-Pigeon
Scientific NameColumba palumbus
FamilyColumbidae
Wingspan (cm)77.5
Length (cm)42.5
Weight (g)475
Plumage DetailsAdults have a grey head, a distinctive white patch on the sides of the neck bordered by iridescent green and purple, and a pinkish-grey breast. The back and wings are grey, with a prominent white bar visible on the wing in flight. The bill is yellow with a white cere, and the legs are reddish.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a characteristic five-note cooing call, often transcribed as 'hoo-hooo-hoo-hoo-hoo', which is a familiar sound in its range.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across Europe, parts of North Africa, and western Asia, extending eastwards into Siberia.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size for a pigeon, White patch on sides of neck (adults), Pinkish-grey breast, White wing bar (visible in flight), Distinctive five-note cooing call
Description
The Common Wood-Pigeon is a large, widespread pigeon species found across Europe, North Africa, and western Asia. It is often seen in woodlands, parks, and urban areas, feeding primarily on plant matter.
