Passenger Pigeon
NamePassenger Pigeon
Common NamePassenger Pigeon
Scientific NameEctopistes migratorius
FamilyColumbidae
Wingspan (cm)55
Length (cm)40
Weight (g)300
Plumage DetailsMales had a slate-blue head, nape, and upper back, with iridescent bronze-green and purple patches on the sides of the neck. The breast was a rich reddish-brown, fading to a paler belly. The lower back and rump were grayish-brown, and the wings were brownish with some darker spots. The long, pointed tail was mostly white with black outer feathers. Females were duller overall, with a grayish-brown head and breast, and less vibrant iridescence.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a simple, low 'coo' or 'kek' sound, often described as a soft, mournful cooing.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusextinct
Geographic RangeHistorically ranged across eastern North America, from the Great Plains to the Atlantic coast, and from southern Canada to the Gulf Coast.
Identifying Featureslong, pointed tail, slate-blue head (males), reddish-brown breast (males), iridescent neck patches (males), brownish wings with dark spots
Description
The Passenger Pigeon was a highly social, migratory bird, once the most abundant bird in North America, known for forming immense flocks. Males displayed slate-blue heads, reddish-brown breasts, and iridescent neck patches, while females were duller. This species is famously extinct.
