Feral Pigeon vs. Rock Dove
What's the Difference?
Feral pigeons and rock doves are actually the same species, Columba livia, but they are often referred to by different names depending on their habitat. Feral pigeons are the urban-dwelling descendants of domesticated rock doves, while rock doves are typically found in more natural environments such as cliffs and rocky outcrops. Both birds have similar physical characteristics, including a grayish-blue plumage, iridescent feathers on their necks, and a distinctive cooing call. However, feral pigeons have adapted to city life and are often seen scavenging for food in parks and on city streets, while rock doves tend to forage for seeds and grains in more rural settings.
Comparison
| Attribute | Feral Pigeon | Rock Dove |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Columba livia domestica | Columba livia |
| Common Name | Feral Pigeon | Rock Dove |
| Origin | Descended from domesticated Rock Doves | Native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia |
| Coloration | Varies widely, often gray with iridescent feathers | Gray with iridescent neck feathers |
| Behavior | Adaptable to urban environments, scavenges for food | Nests on cliffs, ledges, and buildings |
Further Detail
Physical Appearance
Feral pigeons and rock doves are closely related species that share many physical attributes. Both birds have a similar size, with an average length of 30-35 cm and a wingspan of 64-72 cm. They have a stout body, short legs, and a small head with a distinctive hooked beak. The plumage of feral pigeons and rock doves is also quite similar, with a mix of grey, white, and black feathers.
Habitat
One key difference between feral pigeons and rock doves is their habitat preferences. Feral pigeons are highly adaptable birds that can be found in urban areas around the world. They are commonly seen in parks, city squares, and on buildings, where they nest and roost. In contrast, rock doves are more commonly found in natural habitats such as cliffs, rocky outcrops, and coastal areas. They are less likely to be found in urban environments.
Behavior
Both feral pigeons and rock doves are social birds that form large flocks. They are known for their distinctive cooing calls and their ability to navigate long distances. However, feral pigeons are more likely to scavenge for food in urban areas, feeding on scraps left by humans. Rock doves, on the other hand, are more likely to forage for seeds, grains, and insects in natural habitats.
Reproduction
When it comes to reproduction, feral pigeons and rock doves have similar breeding habits. They both build nests out of twigs, grass, and other materials, usually in a sheltered location such as a ledge or crevice. Both species lay 1-2 eggs per clutch, which are incubated by both parents for around 17-19 days. The chicks are fed crop milk by the parents until they are old enough to feed themselves.
Conservation Status
While feral pigeons are considered a nuisance in many urban areas due to their droppings and potential for disease transmission, they are not considered a threatened species. In fact, their population has increased in recent years due to their ability to adapt to human environments. Rock doves, on the other hand, are considered a species of least concern by the IUCN. They have a stable population and are found in a wide range of habitats around the world.
Interactions with Humans
Both feral pigeons and rock doves have a long history of interactions with humans. Rock doves were domesticated thousands of years ago and are the ancestors of the domestic pigeon. Feral pigeons, on the other hand, are descendants of domestic pigeons that have returned to the wild. While some people view feral pigeons as pests, others appreciate their beauty and intelligence.
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