Rock Dove
NameRock Dove
Common NameRock Dove
Scientific NameColumba livia
FamilyColumbidae
Wingspan (cm)68
Length (cm)33
Weight (g)350
Plumage DetailsTypically grey with a darker head and iridescent green and purple sheen on the neck and upper breast. Most individuals have two distinct black bars on each wing, a white rump, and a broad dark band on the tail. Feral populations exhibit a wide variety of plumage colors and patterns due to domestication and cross-breeding.
Vocalization / CallA characteristic soft, guttural cooing sound, often a repeated 'coo-roo-coo-coo' or 'hoo-hoo-hoo'. Males also produce a louder 'ooh-ooh-ooh' during courtship displays.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatscliffs, urban, suburban, agricultural land
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia, but widely introduced and established as feral populations across nearly all continents, particularly in urban areas globally.
Identifying FeaturesGrey plumage with iridescent neck, Two black wing bars (often visible), Stout body and small head, Short red legs and feet, Characteristic cooing vocalization
Description
The Rock Dove, commonly known as the Feral Pigeon, is a stout-bodied bird with a small head and short legs. It is highly adaptable, thriving in both natural cliff habitats and urban environments worldwide, often seen foraging for food on the ground.
