Pigeons are as much a part of NYC’s identity as bagels, pizza, and the subway. Despite how common they are, these birds are often overlooked and underappreciated. Read on to learn more about the “coo”-est New Yorkers around!
APPEARANCE
Pigeons, sometimes known as rock doves, are largely harmless and gentle birds. These plump birds have a skin saddle (cere) between their small bills and yellow/orange eyes. Along their necks, you can often observe a blue and purple “oil slick” pattern followed by dark and light gray plumage dotted with black patterns around their wings. Some pigeons have white spots or are all white - and even more exciting are the variety that replaces gray tones for brown and khaki coloring!
When compared to their wild counterparts, city dwelling pigeons tend to be darker in color. Some researchers speculate that this change is an adaptation that makes these specific birds better suited to blending into the architectural features of cities like concrete, pavement, and various dark metal structures like bridges and overpasses.
These social birds are often seen hanging out in groups called flocks or kits. Because pigeons are monogamous and mate for life, they tend to stick to familiar friendship groups for safety. When it comes to choosing a home, they rely on building niches, bridges, and outcroppings that mimic their natural habitats of rocky shore cliffs and ledges.
Though their long wings and strong muscles make them quick fliers, they tend to stick to the ground for easier access to food like grains, seeds, fruits, and the occasional insect, snail, or worm. If they steer clear of dangerous predators and accidents, their lifespan in the wild averages anywhere from 2-5 years - but these hardy birds have been known to live up to 30 years in captivity!
Laying eggs is a year-round business for pigeons and they often lay eggs in pairs of two. During the day, the male and female will take turns incubating while the other goes searching for food. But the food they forage isn’t the only nutrition baby pigeons get.
Did you know pigeons produce milk? “Crop milk” is a nutrient-rich liquid that comes from specialized cells in a pigeon's throat. Both the male and female pigeon parents will begin to produce this milk a couple of days before their eggs hatch. After their babies are old enough to eat regular food (about 10 days after hatching), the specialized milk-producing cells return to normal.
Pam please tell Donnie these Hansennes do indeed have a lot of class. Large wings like I've never seen like maybe on a duck or owl. They have a lovely prance, and their Roman noses takes the cake. Love it! Keep up the good breeding Donnie.
Dear Don,
Just sending a gift for my appreciation for getting such nice Sion birds from you. When I get some youngsters from them, I will send you some photos. I am still planning on purchase another hen and cock. Have a good breeding season with your birds.
Received birds this morning here in Missouri. They are safe and both beautiful.
Beautiful female pigeon. Lovely mix of colors, fether quality and great posture. I figured her picture wasn't the best pose. The male is impressive and very masculine looking and I'm happy to say they are calm and get along very well together. Thanks again they are gorgeous....
The birds arrived today got them all tucked in the loft. You saved the best for last I think there nice birds ,,only sorry I didn't buy a couple of the other hens. Thanks alot
Hello. I received the birds today they look great. Thank you very much.
The Hen is here! Awesome bird & I can feel the power just holding her. She is very calm pigeon & that is always a plus. Thanks so much!
Hi this is Nate from Wisconsin. I just wanted to let you know the Andalusian cockbird made it here in good shape today. Thanks again!
Hi Don, birds are adapting well. I like their presentaion & calmness. Looks like they will fit in with my birds. I see what you mean about the BB. We'll see how he produces. Might b a genetic thing & go away when crossed with and unrelated hen.
Regards
Jim
Halo! Just picked up bird from post office. Thank you very much!
Thank you very much for your attention. the pigeons are beautiful and eat well. Im recommending your pigeons to my friends. I hope to buy more pigeons from you in the future. Thank you.
Arrived early and in perfect condition. I have 8 favorites.
