Common pigeon

Description

Columba livia, commonly known as the Rock Pigeon, is a species of bird that belongs to the family Columbidae. This species is widely distributed across the world, and has been domesticated and introduced to various regions. In this article, we will explore the biology, behavior, and ecological significance of Columba livia. Taxonomy and Distribution Columba livia is a member of the genus Columba, which includes more than 50 species of pigeons and doves. The species is native to Europe, North Africa, and southwest Asia, but has since been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America, South America, Australia, and New Zealand. It is a common sight in cities and towns around the world, where it is often referred to as the "city pigeon." Physical Characteristics Rock Pigeons, also known as Columba livia, are medium-sized birds with a plump, rounded body and small head. They have a length of 29 to 37 cm (11 to 15 in) and a wingspan of 62 to 72 cm (24 to 28 in). Their weight varies depending on their subspecies, but generally ranges from 238 to 380 grams (8.4 to 13.4 oz). The plumage of Rock Pigeons is highly variable, with a range of colors and patterns. Most commonly, they have a bluish-gray body with two black bars on their wings and a black band on their tail. However, they can also be found in other colors such as white, brown, black, and red. Rock Pigeons have a short, thick neck and a small, rounded head with a short, stout beak. Their eyes are typically orange or reddish-orange in color and are surrounded by a bare, white eye ring. They have small, rounded nostrils located at the base of their beak. Their legs are short and pink or purplish-red in color, and their feet have four toes, with three toes pointing forward and one pointing backward. They have sharp claws that allow them to perch on a variety of surfaces, including ledges and tree branches. Overall, Rock Pigeons have a distinctive and recognizable appearance, with a plump body, small head, and highly variable plumage. Behavior and Ecology Rock Pigeons are social birds, living in flocks that can range from a few individuals to several hundred. They are known for their ability to adapt to urban environments, and can often be seen scavenging for food in parks, streets, and garbage dumps. In the wild, they feed on seeds, fruit, and insects, and will also consume small amounts of grit to aid in digestion. During breeding season, Rock Pigeons will form monogamous pairs and build nests in a variety of locations, including cliffs, buildings, and trees. The female typically lays two eggs, which both parents will incubate for about 17-19 days. After hatching, the young will remain in the nest for an additional 25-32 days, being fed crop milk produced by both parents. Domestication Rock Pigeons (Columba livia) are one of the most widely domesticated bird species in the world. They have been bred for various purposes for thousands of years, including for food, racing, and show purposes. Domesticated Rock Pigeons are often referred to as "domestic pigeons" or "feral pigeons" when they live in urban environments. Domesticated Rock Pigeons have been selectively bred for various traits, resulting in a wide range of colors and patterns that are not commonly found in wild populations. These birds have also been selectively bred for traits such as size, speed, and endurance for racing or show purposes. In some cases, domesticated Rock Pigeons have escaped or been released into the wild, where they have established feral populations. These feral populations are often found in urban environments and can sometimes cause problems, such as damaging buildings or crops. It is important to note that while domesticated Rock Pigeons are genetically the same species as wild Rock Pigeons, they can have significant differences in behavior, appearance, and physiology due to the effects of artificial selection. Ecological Significance Rock Pigeons, also known as Columba livia, play an important ecological role in the areas where they are found. While they are often considered a nuisance in urban environments, they also have positive impacts on the ecosystem. One of the primary ecological functions of Rock Pigeons is seed dispersal. They consume a wide range of plant material, including seeds, fruits, and flowers, and can help to spread these materials to new locations. This process can be particularly important in urban environments, where other wildlife may be less common and unable to perform this function. Rock Pigeons also contribute to nutrient cycling in ecosystems. Their droppings, also known as guano, are rich in nitrogen and other nutrients that can fertilize the soil and promote plant growth. This can be particularly important in urban areas, where the soil may be depleted due to human activities such as construction and pollution. In addition to their ecological functions, Rock Pigeons also serve as a source of food for a variety of predators, including raptors, foxes, and snakes. This can help to support populations of these predators and contribute to the overall health of the ecosystem. Overall, while Rock Pigeons may be seen as a nuisance in some situations, they do have important ecological significance and contribute to the functioning of the ecosystems where they are found. Conservation Status Rock Pigeons, also known as Columba livia, are not currently considered a threatened species and are listed as a species of "Least Concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This means that their populations are stable and they are not at risk of extinction in the immediate future. Rock Pigeons are widespread and adaptable birds that can survive in a variety of habitats, including urban and rural areas. They are also widely domesticated and bred for various purposes, which has further increased their population. However, as with any species, it is important to monitor their populations and ensure that they remain at healthy levels. In some areas, Rock Pigeons can become overabundant and cause problems, such as damaging buildings or crops. In these situations, management strategies may need to be put in place to control their populations. Overall, while Rock Pigeons are not currently at risk of extinction, their populations should continue to be monitored to ensure their long-term survival and to mitigate any negative impacts they may have on human activities. Conclusion Columba livia, or the Rock Pigeon, is a familiar sight in cities and towns around the world. While they are often viewed as a nuisance, they are also an important part of urban ecosystems and have been domesticated for thousands of years. By understanding their biology, behavior, and ecological significance, we can better appreciate these fascinating birds and their place in the natural world.