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Types of Pigeon

In the UK, pigeons, despite their seemingly benign presence, are often regarded as pests due to their prolific nature and potential for causing various issues and damage to property.

Collared Dove

The Collared Dove (also called the Ring-Necked Dove) is not a native species to the UK.  However after being introduced in 1953 from Europe, it is an extremely successful species.

They are now a common visitor to gardens across the UK, with numbers rising dramatically over the last 44 years. Smaller than the Feral Pigeon, measuring 21-33 cm, they can be identified by a narrow black band around the rear of the neck and dark wing tips on the primary flight feathers.

Types of Pigeon - Collared Dove

Collared Doves breed almost exclusively in trees or bushes, building a very basic nest made of small twigs. Breeding takes place between February/March, and October. Their nests will be found close to human habitation where food supplies are optimum, normally in residential gardens or parks. They lay two white eggs which hatch in 15-18 days, with the young fledgling after 17-22 days.

Types of Pigeon - Wood Pigeon

The Wood Pigeon

The Wood Pigeon is the most common pigeon found in the UK, even eclipsing the Feral Pigeon population in towns and cities. Unlike the Feral Pigeon however, the Wood Pigeon is found predominantly in rural areas, although it has started to exploit urban habitats in the last 30 years.

The largest pigeon in the UK, measuring 38-43cm, they can be identified by a distinctive white broken band around the rear of its neck and prominent white wing bars. Wood Pigeons breed between June and November, with woodland areas being the natural choice. They lay two white eggs in a very basic nest made of twigs, with eggs hatching in 17-19 days.

Feral Pigeons

Feral Pigeons are commonly found in urban areas, nesting in places such as a block of flats, a bit of Victorian Gothic architecture, or a railway arch. They are descended from the Wild Rock Dove and, over the years, they have become semi domesticated. Measuring 32-37cm, they can be identified by their distinctive twin black wing bars.

Their nesting can block chimneys, flues, and guttering, which can cause issues with carbon monoxide and water overflow from gutters. It’s also common to find parasites such as mites, ticks, fleas, and beetles in their nests. So, if you don’t solve your pigeon problem, you may find you suffer from a parasite infestation too.

Types of Pigeon - Feral Pigeon

Pigeon droppings are acidic and can corrode/erode metals, stonework, and brickwork. Not only can they destroy materials and look and smell unpleasant, they can transmit a variety of diseases from Listeria to E-coli. When dry, their droppings can become airborne in small particles, which can lead to respiratory complaints.

Having issues with pigeons and need our help?

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