How to Identify Pigeons

Note the habitat of pigeons. The most common pigeon in North America, the Rock Pigeon, is widespread throughout the continent. It can be found in cities, towns and suburbs, but also in fields and parks. Because of its predominance in cities, the Rock Pigeon is sometimes referred to as the City Pigeon. The Band-tailed Pigeon is found in the northwestern part of North America in coniferous forests and in the southwestern United States in oak or conifer woodlands. This pigeon can be found in suburbs and towns as well.

Observe the appearance of pigeons. Rock Pigeons are variable in color, ranging from brownish to white to black to gray. Most are gray in color, however. Rock Pigeons often have a white rump, and a rounded tail with a dark black banded tip. Rock Pigeons' wings are moderately pointed and are broad in diameter. Gray Rock Pigeons' wings tend to be pale gray with two back bars visible during flight. The nape and throat areas of Rock Pigeons can be iridescent, with colors of purple, green and bronze. Female Rock Pigeons look similar to males, but they often are not as iridescent. Band-tailed pigeons are purplish in color, with a purple breast and head. They also have a white band on their necks. Their tails also have a predominant gray band on them.

Compare the size of the Rock Pigeon and the Band-tailed Pigeon. The Rock Pigeon is a large sized bird, measuring between 29 and 36 cm. They weigh on average 265 to 380 grams, and have a wingspan of 50 to 67 cm. The Band-tailed Pigeon is slightly larger, measuring between 36 and 38 cm. They weigh approximately 342 to 364 grams, and have a wingspan of approximately 64 cm.

Listen to the calls of the Rock Pigeon and the Band-tailed Pigeon. The Rock Pigeon has a call that sounds similar to a "coo-cuk-cuk-cooooo." The call is also very soft sounding. The call of the Band-tailed Pigeon is repetitive in nature, sounding like "whoo-whoo."