Latin name

Columba palumbus

Family

Pigeons and doves (Columbidae)

Overview

The UK's largest and commonest pigeon, it is largely grey with a white neck patch and white wing patches, clearly visible in flight. Although shy in the countryside it can be tame and approachable in towns and cities. Its cooing call is a familiar sound in woodlands as is the loud clatter of its wings when it flies away.

Where to see them

Found across the UK in fields and woods, and also in towns and cities where they frequent parks and gardens.

When to see them

All year round

What they eat

Crops like cabbages, sprouts, peas and grain. Also buds, shoots, seeds, nuts and berries.