The Wood Pigeon (Columba palumbus), also known the Common Wood Pigeon, is a large species in the dove and pigeon family that is native to the western Palearctic. It closely related to the (Columba livia) which is the ancestor of most (maybe all?) of the feral pigeons that we see in many urban areas today.
The wood pigeon large pigeon size at 38 – 44.5 cm with a weight of between 300 – 615 g. It is basically grey bird, with a pinkish breast with white on its neck and wing. The wingspan can range from 68 to 80 cm.
This species is often regarded as an agricultural pest, and is hunted, in most European countries. It is wary in rural areas, but often quite tame where it is not persecuted. These birds seem to fall into the 'quite tame ' category!
The bird on the ground is at the RSPB reserve at Ham Wall in Somerset, and the perched birds are at the WWT Reserve at Slimbridge.
The final pictures show a Wood Pigeon perched on a large Lego owl at Slimbridge.
As ever, to join in with WBW click on the blue button below. Cheers SM
A beautiful bird. This spring the dove couldn't quite decide where to make its nest.
ReplyDeleteHari OM
ReplyDeletePlentiful population of this Pigeon wherever I am! They are juggernauts at feeding stations, elephantine... but they are rather attractive when seen close up. YAM xx
I had forgotten all about the pigeon shoots. They were very common here in the 60s and 70s but have since been stopped... I don't think I have seen a pigeon since the last time I was at the shore.... Probably 25 years ago. I seem to remember them being very annoying. It was hard not to trip over them on the boardwalk. Great pictures Stewart!!
ReplyDeleteThey are beautiful underappreciated birds. Thank you, Stewart Aloha!
ReplyDeleteTack sharp pigeon portraits
ReplyDeleteI think we take pigeons and doves for granted. They are amazing birds. The Wood pigeons are beauties!
ReplyDeletePersonally I think this Pigeon in underrated. If you look at it carefully, it is beautiful. Thanks for hositng and commenting Stewart and I hope you have a great week ahead
ReplyDeleteC'est un très beau pigeon ! Dans nos campgnes, on les mange, c'est excellent avec des petits pois ;)
ReplyDeleteIt’s a good looking bird.
ReplyDeletecolors combine so beautiful.... Never seen in nature
ReplyDeleteBeautiful photos, Stewart. I love ❤️ pigeons. They are sweet and intelligent.
ReplyDeleteLast time I visited the UK I think I was the only person with a good word for them!
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing such a detailed and lovely post about the Wood Pigeon. It’s always rewarding to learn more about these familiar yet often overlooked birds. The Wood Pigeon’s soft grey and pink tones are understated but elegant, and it’s fascinating how they adapt wary in the countryside yet comfortable near people in less disturbed areas. Lovely photos. www.melodyjacob.com
ReplyDeleteLike the grackles around here in Florida) their colors can be beautiful, but because they are seen as pests the beauty is overlooked. Actions speak louder )). Both (I suspect) are lovelier in relatively unhabitated areas
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