Pigeons vs Doves: Are They Really Different?

Pigeons and doves are often said to be the same thing, but is this true? The pigeons vs doves naming has long been confusing for many. These birds both belong to the Columbidae family, so that is the same. They also share many similarities in appearance and behavior. This leads to the common question: Are pigeons and doves actually the same?

The short answer is, it’s complicated. The terms are often used interchangeably in everyday language. However, many folks use subtle distinctions to differentiate between these feathered creatures.

Misconceptions and Common Questions

The big question – are doves and pigeons actually different species? From a scientific standpoint, both terms refer to the same group of birds within the Columbidae family. There isn’t a clear-cut distinction between a dove and a pigeon in scientific naming. And people tend to use the terms interchangeably. “Dove,” though, usually refers to the smaller species. And “Pigeon” refers to the larger ones. However, it’s not a hard and fast rule by any means.

So, the scientific answer is that these birds are the same. However, this doesn’t carry over to identification and social perceptions. Even though they are technically the same, there are some physical differences people use to separate them. Unfortunately, these differences don’t apply to all pigeon and doves species so there is still confusion. Pigeons and doves are treated quite differently. People tend to seriously dislike pigeons. But doves are adored by most and even used in many traditional wedding practices (although, in many cases specially bred albino rock pigeon are used instead of doves!). This is an honor few people would knowingly give to a pigeon.

The different and confusing names for these birds stem from linguistic traditions rather than biological differences. For example, the term “dove” is used in some parts of the world. In other cultures, “pigeon” is the common name. Pigeon is a French word that derives from the Latin pīpiō and translates to ‘peeping’ chick. Dove is a Germanic word that likely refers to the bird’s diving flight. This difference in common names can be traced back to different cultural associations and uses of the birds. In many cases, the proper name depends on where you are in the world and who you’re talking to.

Misconceptions about pigeons and doves significantly impact how these birds are perceived and treated. For instance, pigeons have often been labeled as pests. Terms like “rats with wings” reinforced this view. The term was popularized in the 1980s and negatively affected public perception of the birds. This label links pigeons to disorder and disease. And that’s entirely unfair to pigeons because they are poor vectors for transmitting diseases to humans. Understanding that doves and pigeons are essentially the same helps challenge these stereotypes. This insight encourages a more informed and respectful view of these ubiquitous city dwellers.

The History of Pigeons and Doves

Doves and pigeons belong to the Columbidae family. Birds in this family are characterized by their stout bodies, short necks, and distinctive short, slender bills. The bills often have a fleshy cere, too. They are found globally, with the highest species diversity in the Indomalayan and Australasian regions.

The Columbiformes birds originated in the Cretaceous period. Their anatomy is adapted to their diet and includes seeds and fruits. This is dependent on the species, though. Their preferred food source affects their physical traits. For example, granivores have a gizzard to process their food. The family’s evolutionary path is further complicated by its unclear genetic links to other bird families. This suggests a unique evolutionary lineage primarily rooted in the Australasian region.

Historically, pigeons have been integral to human societies across various cultures and continents. From ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt to the Roman Empire, pigeons were domesticated for food and religious ceremonies. They were also notably used as messengers. The use of pigeons as messengers is famously captured in stories from the Bible and historical records. Julius Caesar used pigeon messengers to communicate strategies during his campaigns. The practice of using pigeons as messengers peaked during the 12th to 13th centuries.

Pigeon vs Dove: Size and Shape Comparisons

Pigeons and doves are usually separated by size and shape, although this doesn’t apply to all species. Adult pigeons generally measure between 12.5-13.75 inches long and weigh about 9-12 ounces. In contrast, adult doves are smaller. They are 10-12 inches long and weigh 3-6 ounces. For example, the Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) grows up to 11 inches long. The petite Roller Pigeon averages around 9.75 pounds. Ringneck doves are small and weigh around 6 ounces. But Diamond doves are even smaller and weigh only around 1.5 ounces.

The tail structure is another distinctive feature between these two birds. Doves typically have longer, thinner, and more expressive tails that fan out impressively during flight. Pigeons, on the other hand, have shorter and stubbier tails that do not spread as widely. Observers can identify mourning doves in flight by the flashes of white on the tips of their fan-shaped tails.

Despite their similarities, the body shapes of pigeons and doves also vary. Pigeons are larger and stubbier with a more rounded body and a shorter, straight tail. Doves are generally smaller in stature and have a slender build. The beak of a dove is slender and longer, and their eyes are slightly larger compared to those of pigeons. The European Turtle Dove is significantly smaller than the more robust Common Woodpigeon. This species is native to Eurasia and known for its stockier build.

Pigeons and Doves Lifecycle and Behavior

Pigeons and doves have a natural lifespan ranging from 10 to 20 years. But, many wild birds live considerably shorter lives due to predation, hunting, or injury. A dove named Methuselah lived to the age of 29.5 years, a record-setting accomplishment. Similarly, a pigeon named Peace holds the longevity record for his species at over 24 years.

Both pigeons and doves are monogamous. They usually form long-term pair bonds. These bonds last for many years, sometimes even for life. During the breeding season, males engage in elaborate displays, including high flights and fluttering descents, to attract females. The nesting process involves both partners. Males typically gather materials, and females construct the nest. Depending on the species, doves may lay one to two eggs. Pigeons generally lay two. Both parents share the responsibility of incubating the eggs and caring for the young. The babies are fed a nutritious substance known as “pigeon milk.”

Doves and pigeons are often seen in flocks, where their social structure includes dominant and subordinate members. These birds spend significant time foraging for food. Some species, like the fruit dove, have specialized diets that influence their reproductive strategies. Pigeons and doves take part in sunbathing, dustbathing, and preening to maintain their feathers. These activities are crucial for their survival and efficiency in flight.

FAQs