How to identify the African Rock Pigeon

To correctly identify the African Rock Pigeon (Columba guinea), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

33-37 cm

Wingspan

65-70 cm

Weight

250-350 g

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Adults have a grey head, neck, and underparts, often with a purplish-green iridescent sheen on the neck and upper breast. The most striking feature is the rufous-brown patch on the inner wing coverts, contrasting with the grey flight feathers and blackish primary tips. The back is grey, and the rump is white. The tail is grey with a broad black subterminal band. The legs and feet are reddish-pink.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Relatively slender, dark grey to blackish bill with a whitish cere.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Yellow to orange-red, surrounded by a prominent bare red orbital patch.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Reddish-pink

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   The bare red orbital patch around the eye and the rufous-brown wing patches are the most distinctive field marks. The white rump is also a good identifier in flight.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles are duller than adults, lacking the iridescent neck plumage and having a less prominent red orbital patch. The rufous wing patches are also less distinct and may appear more brownish.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes. Plumage remains consistent throughout the year.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males and females are generally monomorphic in plumage, though males may be slightly larger and have more intense iridescence on the neck.

Key field marks

• Bare Red Orbital Patch. Look for the prominent, bare red skin around the eye. This is a key diagnostic feature.
• Rufous Wing Patches. Observe the inner wing coverts for a distinct rufous-brown patch, which contrasts with the grey body and flight feathers.
• White Rump. In flight, a clear white rump is visible, contrasting with the grey back and tail.
• Neck Iridescence. Note the purplish-green iridescent sheen on the neck and upper breast, especially in good light.
• Vocalization. Listen for its deep, guttural cooing calls, often a repeated 'doo-doo-doo-doo'.

Explore the African Rock Pigeon