Feral Pigeons
Key Features
Feral pigeons (Columba livia) are medium sized birds (32cm in length) with greyish brown plumage. Pigeons are actually
domesticated rock doves that have returned to wild or semi-wild conditions. Some rock doves were domesticated for food, others
as homing pigeons, and some as 'fancy' pigeons, bred for their plumage.
Biology
During courtship the male will follow a female around bowing his head, fanning his tail and making 'cooing' noises. Mating occurs
shortly afterward and is fairly brief.
Nests are built by the female using material collected by the male. The female lays clutches of two white eggs, twice per year.
Juvenile Pigeons are fed from a special substance produced in the pigeon's crop known as 'pigeon milk'. This substance is high
in fat and protein and low in carbohydrate.
Adult pigeons can live for 3 - 5 years.
Distribution
Feral pigeons are widespread and very common throughout Europe. They are also found in Africa, North America, South America
and Asia.
Significance
Can carry serious diseases, and often cause significant hygiene problems through their droppings. Droppings can cause floods
by blocking drainage, and can corrode masonry.
Control
A careful survey will reveal areas of infestation, nest sites, perches and roosts. These should then be treated with a variety of
proofing mechanisms, to restrict access by pigeons. Flock sizes may be reduced by culling, by a variety of methods.
