Common wood pigeon (Columba palumbus)

Identification

Adults are mainly slate-grey with a pinkish breast tone and show white patches on either side of the neck and distinct white flashes on the wings that are visible in flight. Key field features include:

• Size: noticeably larger and more rounded than many urban pigeons.
• Plumage: uniform grey body, white neck patches and wing flashes when flying.
• Call: a deep, rolling sequence of coos heard from trees and open sites.

Habitat and distribution

Wood pigeons occupy a wide range of habitats: mature woodland, hedgerows, farmland, suburban parks and gardens. They adapt well to human-altered landscapes and may be resident or locally migratory depending on climate and food availability.

Behaviour and diet

These birds forage on the ground and in trees for seeds, shoots, berries and fruit; they also take grain and newly sown crops, which can bring them into conflict with agriculture. Outside the breeding season they may form loose flocks and gather at rich food sources.

Breeding and interactions with people

Wood pigeons build a simple stick platform nest, usually in a tree, and typically lay two white eggs. Both parents participate in incubation and feeding of the young. Because of their numbers and habit of feeding on cereal crops, they are sometimes regarded as pests, and hunting or control occurs in some regions. Overall the species is common and easily observed.