Rock Pigeon look-alikes
Columba livia
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Rock Pigeon. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Eurasian Collared-Dove
Streptopelia decaocto
Key differences
Smaller and more slender than a Rock Pigeon, with a longer tail. Plumage is uniformly pale grey-buff with a distinctive black half-collar on the nape. Lacks the iridescent neck and black wing bars of the wild-type Rock Pigeon. Its call is a distinctive three-note 'coo-COO-coo'.
Band-tailed Pigeon
Patagioenas fasciata
Key differences
Larger and stockier, found in forested areas of western North America. Has a distinctive white band on the nape and a pale band across the tail. Lacks the iridescent neck and black wing bars of the Rock Pigeon. Its call is a deep, owl-like 'hoo-hoo-hoo'.
Stock Dove
Columba oenas
Key differences
Similar in size but lacks the white rump and distinct black wing bars of the wild-type Rock Pigeon. Its plumage is a more uniform blue-grey, and it has black primary flight feathers. Found in more rural, wooded habitats in Europe and Asia.
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