Scientific Name:
Columba palumbus
Common Name:
Woodpigeon
Family:
Pigeon Family: Columbidae
Summary:
The Woodpigeon is the largest species of pigeon in the British Isles. Its back is grey, as is the centre parts of the wings. The outer parts, seen during flight, are charcoal grey. Between these two areas on the wings are white wing bars. The breast is pink in colour and a green bar above a white bar is seen on the side of the neck. The bill is yellow with a white area at the base.
Ecology:
Woodpigeons flock together on farmland where they can be a pest, feeding on new seedlings. They are also common in parklands and towns. The Woodpigeon nest is a simple platform of twigs, often built in trees but also on ledges. They feed on seeds and young plant material and are particularly fond of grain.
Habitat:
Farmland, woodland.
Distribution:
Throughout the British Isles except the Scottish highlands
Size:
40 cm