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Some folks consider them an endearing part of urban life, others see them as an aggravation, but everyone recognizes this familiar wild neighbor.
Pigeons may have been the first bird species to be domesticated, possibly as early as 6,500 years ago. The Egyptians used pigeons to carry the news of the coronation of Ramses III—more than 3,000 years before the United States was founded. Like so many Americans, the rock dove, as the species also is known, is a European immigrant: pigeons were introduced to North America by early European settlers.
You'll find pigeons in almost any city, town, or suburb on the continent. Their diet consists primarily of grains and seeds, along with insects and some greens. But pigeons aren’t terribly picky, and they’ll happily accept human food scraps and leftovers when available. From a pigeon’s point of view, city living can’t be beat. Food and water are readily available. Predators are few and far between. Plus, there’s plenty of free housing - pigeons like to live in large groups on window ledges, rooftops, bridges, and warehouses as these offer room for whole flocks to rest or take shelter in close proximity.
Most birds quench their thirst by dipping their bills and then tipping their heads so water runs down their throats. Pigeons drink by sucking water into their bills.
Pigeons can reach flight speeds of 15 to 60 miles per hour!
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