Pigeon
Pigeons are birds in the family Columbidae, which also includes doves; the term usually refers to larger members of this group.
Pigeons are birds in the family Columbidae, which also includes doves. The rock pigeon is the best-known species and is common in Canadian cities.
What it is
Pigeons are members of the bird family Columbidae in the order Columbiformes. In common usage, “pigeon” often refers to larger species, while “dove” is used for smaller ones, though the distinction is not strict.
Key details
Columbidae contains more than 300 species found across the world in habitats ranging from forests and cliffs to urban areas. The rock pigeon (Columba livia) is the ancestor of many feral pigeons in cities and is listed as Least Concern.
Canada angle
Feral rock pigeons are familiar birds in many Canadian cities, often seen in parks and on buildings. They are a common part of the urban landscape and are not considered at risk.
In short
- Pigeons belong to the family Columbidae, which also includes doves.
- There are more than 300 species of pigeons and doves worldwide.
- The rock pigeon is the ancestor of many feral city pigeons.
- Pigeons are common in Canadian cities and are not endangered.
Pigeons, especially feral rock pigeons, are common in many Canadian cities and are familiar urban birds to Canadian readers.
Quick questions
What is a pigeon?
Are pigeons and doves the same?
What is the scientific name of the common city pigeon?
Sources
- PBS Nature — https://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/blog/pigeon-fact-sheet/Supports: Taxonomy of pigeons, diversity of Columbidae, and conservation status of the rock pigeon.
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/pigeonSupports: Definition of pigeon as members of Columbidae and the common pigeon/dove naming distinction.
- Animal Fun Facts — https://www.animalfunfacts.net/pigeons/170-pigeon.htmlSupports: General habitat and species diversity notes for pigeons.
- World Animal Protection — https://www.worldanimalprotection.us/latest/blogs/pigeon-facts/Supports: Relationship between pigeons and doves and species count.
- OvoControl — https://www.ovocontrol.com/pigeon-facts-figuresSupports: Native range of the rock pigeon, dimensions, and worldwide spread of feral pigeons.
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology — https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Rock_Pigeon/overviewSupports: Rock pigeon species identification and natural history.