English: Rock dove, Rock pigeon.
Source: Egg yolk.
Order: Columbiformer.Family:
Columbidae.
Aristophanes and others use the word “kolumbis” meaning “diver”, for the name of the bird, because of its swimming motion in the air.
“Livia” is derived from the Latin livor “discolouration” or “bluish”.
In common usage, this bird is often simply referred to as the "pigeon".
Some authors employ the convention of
Columba livia “domestica”, which is not a formal category in zoological nomenclature. For feral pigeons it is certainly not suitable as they are not bred by human selection.
Columbia livia forma domestica is also invalid according to the rules of the International Code of Zoological
Nomenclature.
Escaped domestic pigeons have raised the populations of feral pigeons around the world.
Wild rock doves are pale grey with two black bars on each wing, while domestic and feral pigeons are very variable in colour and pattern. There are few visible differences between males and females. The species is generally monogamous, with two squabs (young) per brood. Both parents care for the young for a time.
Habitats include various open and semi-open environments. Cliffs and rock ledges are used for roosting and breeding in the wild. Originally found wild in Europe, North Africa, and western Asia, pigeons have become established in cities around the world. The species is abundant, with an estimated population of 17 to 28 million feral and wild birds in Europe.
Pigeons feed on the ground in flocks or individually. They roost together in buildings or on walls or statues. When drinking, most birds take small sips and tilt their heads backwards to swallow the water. Pigeons are able to dip their bills into the water and drink continuously without having to tilt their heads back. When disturbed, a pigeon in a group will take off with a noisy clapping sound.
Pigeons, especially homing or carrier breeds, are well known for their ability to find their way home from long distances. Despite these demonstrated abilities, wild rock doves are sedentary and rarely leave their local areas.
With only its flying abilities protecting it from predation. Rock pigeons are a favourite almost around the world for a wide range of raptorial birds. On the ground the adults, their young and their eggs are at risk from feral and domestic cats. Doves and pigeons are considered to be game birds as many species have been hunted and used for food in many of the countries in which they are native.
Pigeons may harbour a diverse parasite fauna.
Pigeons have been falsely associated with the spread of human diseases. They are, however, at potential risk for carrying and spreading avian influenza.