Critter Guide :: Birds :: Pigeon 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." Where do they live? Crows live all over the world, except for South America, New Zealand, and Antarctica. What do they eat? Pigeons are found worldwide, except for the North and South Poles. Social Environment Pigeons are very social, flocking together to forage, and nesting and roosting together at night. They communicate with others through body language and vocalizations. Critter Fact 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. Did You Know? 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. Related Episodes The Wild Side of New York http://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/wildside/

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