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Birds: Pigeon
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The most visible wildlife in a city is the pigeon, also called a rock dove. Pigeons and doves have been around for millions of years and humans found them easy to domesticate. In cities, pigeons thrived because the tall buildings resemble their natural rocky cliffs and there is plenty of food available. Known alternately as "rats with wings" and "doves of peace," pigeons have as many allies as foes. Pigeons are often considered pests because they congregate in such large numbers and can make a mess, but a closer look at them shows that they are far from "bird-brained."
Pigeons are found worldwide, except for the North and South Poles.
Pigeons are not fussy eaters and are known as the city's natural garbage disposal, cleaning sidewalks free of dropped bagels, pizzas, popcorn, peanuts, etc., and of course, birdseed.
Pigeons are very social, flocking together to forage, and nesting and roosting together at night. They communicate with others through body language and vocalizations.
Both male and female pigeons produce "pigeon milk" that they feed their hatchlings for the first week; afterwards, they add seed to the milk and soon, seeds completely replace pigeon milk.
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Pigeons and doves are interchangeable -- larger birds are called pigeons and smaller ones are called doves. A white dove is just an all-white pigeon.
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