Rock Dove
NameRock Dove
Common NameRock Dove
Scientific NameColumba livia
FamilyColumbidae
Wingspan (cm)68
Length (cm)33
Weight (g)350
Plumage DetailsWild Rock Doves typically have grey plumage with iridescent green and purple on the neck, two black wing bars, and a white rump. Feral populations exhibit a wide range of color variations, including black, white, brown, and pied patterns, as well as the reddish-pinkish and white seen in the image.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations consist of soft, guttural cooing sounds, often a repetitive 'coo-COO-coo' or 'hoo-hoo-hoo'. They also produce a distinctive wing clap during display flights.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsurban, cliffs, agricultural land, coastal areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia, the Rock Dove has been widely introduced and established feral populations across nearly all continents, making it one of the most widespread bird species globally.
Identifying Featuresplump body, small head, short legs, cooing vocalization, varied plumage (feral forms), strong direct flight, red eyes (in some color morphs)
Description
The Rock Dove, also known as the Feral Pigeon, is a stout-bodied bird with a small head and short legs, highly adapted to urban environments. They are known for their strong, direct flight and characteristic cooing calls, often seen foraging on the ground.
