All About Pigeons

Quick Take

• Most people can't tell one pigeon from another, even though the differences between common species are hiding in plain sight. See the key differences →
• The urban pigeon you see every day has a wild ancestor that's now nearly impossible to find in the city. Meet the Rock Dove descendant →
• One of these species only arrived in the UK in the 1950s, and yet it's now one of the most common birds you'll spot near your home. Discover the collared dove's arrival →
• Size alone can give away a pigeon species, and most people would be surprised by just how big the gap is between the smallest and largest. See the wood pigeon's size →
• One pigeon species announces itself before you even see it. Once you know the tell, you'll notice it everywhere. Spot the distinctive neck band →

Unlike numerous species of bird (or indeed animal), wherever you are in the world you are likely to come across pigeons. Found in urban centers, parks, gardens, and in areas close to agriculture, pigeons play a vital role in the upkeep of numerous different habitats.

However, despite the fact that many people simply think that all pigeons are the same, a number of species can often be found together and although they are in fact very closely related to one another, there are key differences between them including appearance, behaviour, and their calls.

Feral Pigeon

A descendant of the native Rock Dove (now confined to rocky coasts), the feral pigeon is now widespread and is particularly common in urban areas. Growing up to 33cm in length, feral pigeons can be recognised by their grey bodies, black-tipped tails and inky green feathers on their necks.

Stock Dove

Often found feeding in large flocks particularly over fields, the stock dove has a more uniform appearance than related species with a blue-grey body and a lack of a white rump. About the same size as feral pigeons, they nest in holes in trees and can be found as far north as Southern Scotland depending on the habitat.

Collared Dove

Despite having been first recorded in the UK in the 1950s, they are now common and widespread but are most often found close to urban areas. Growing to around 32cm long, collared doves have sandy coloured bodies, with pinkish heads and underparts and a distinctive black band on the back of their necks.