Pigeon (and Dove)

General Information

The domestic pigeon (family Columbidae) includes over 300 breeds descending from the Rock Dove (Columbia livia). They originated in Eurasia but are now found all over the world. They have had a relationship with man since approximately 3000 B.C. There are 4 categories of pigeons. Utility pigeons are raised for meat. Flying pigeons for their brilliant flying skills (rollers, sky cutters, tumblers, tipplers). Racing Homers known for their speed and homing abilities. Finally, the largest category is the toy pigeons known for their fancy shapes and colours such as the fantails, pouters, croppers, archangels and so on. Pigeons are faithful and mate for life. This sort of commitment may be responsible for its bond to their owner and home as illustrated by their homing instinct. They will often defend territory and mate aggressively. Pigeons come in many colour combinations and their plumage can include anything from feathered feet (muffed feet) to crested, maned or hooded heads. These birds have a pleasant personality and quiet nature. They have a peaceful cooing voice. They are generally hardy birds, easy to tame and simple to care for.

Purchasing a pigeon

Pigeons may be purchased from a pet store or a reputable breeder. When selecting a pigeon, try to choose a young bird as it may be easier to tame and train. Older, wild, colony or parent raised birds may prove difficult to tame. Hand raised babies often make better pets since they have been completely socialised with humans. Young birds are easier to tame and adapt readily to new environments and situations. Your new bird should be exposed early to different events (young and old people, males and females, other pets, car trips, visits to the veterinarian, etc.) to help promote a calm, well-adjusted pet. The lively, alert bird that is not easily frightened is more likely a healthy bird. After purchasing your new bird, have it examined by your veterinary surgeon.

Veterinary care

Pigeons require regular, routine veterinary health check ups. Your veterinary surgeon can perform a physical examination, grooming (beak, nail or feather trim) and laboratory tests as needed. During these semi-annual check-ups, health, nutritional and maintenance issues can be identified and addressed. Veterinary check-ups help prevent disease and will aid in the maintenance of a long lasting, healthy relationship between you and your bird.

Colour

Mature

• Basic colour is dull grey with white rump and two large wing bars: other colours include white, brown, grey, bronzy-green and black. However, there are a lot of show varieties with different colours, patterns and body/feather shapes.

Immature

• Same as adult but somewhat duller.

Sexing

• Males generally larger, will puff out their chest in display more, strut more and are more vocal. Older males will develop 'growths' over the cere.
• Young are difficult to differentiate.

Weight

Average 10-20 ounces (300-600 grams).

Size:

Average 25-37 cm (10-15 inches) in length.

Life span

10-14 years.

Diet

Consult your veteirnary surgeon.

Breeding

• sexual maturity at 6-12 months
• easy to breed but require privacy
• both sexes incubate

Brood Size

2 eggs hatch in 14-19 days, young leave the nest in 5 weeks.

Cage

Minimum 60 cm x 90 cm x 120 cm (2 ft x 3 ft x 4 ft) depends on the size of the bird.

Generally they do better in flights or lofts for complete freedom.