How to identify the Pidove

To correctly identify the Pidove (Pidove), 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

30-35 cm

Wingspan

60-70 cm

Weight

250-400 g

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Predominantly grey body, darker grey head, and a white cere (fleshy growth at the base of the beak). The neck and upper breast display iridescent green and purple sheen. Two prominent black bars are visible on each wing, and the rump is typically white. The tail is dark grey with a black terminal band.

2. 2

   Beak shape

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

   Slender, dark grey to black beak with a prominent white cere at the base.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Orange to reddish-orange iris with a pale inner ring.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Reddish-pink legs and feet.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   The combination of grey plumage, iridescent neck, two black wing bars, and reddish-pink legs are key identifiers. The white rump is also a good field mark, especially in flight.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles have duller plumage, less iridescence on the neck, and their legs and feet are often a duller pinkish-grey. The cere is less developed and may appear greyish.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes. The iridescence on the neck may be more vibrant in males during courtship.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males and females are generally monomorphic in plumage, though males may appear slightly larger and have a more pronounced iridescent sheen on the neck during breeding season.

Key field marks

• Size and Shape. Medium-sized, plump pigeon with a small head and short legs. Appears stocky.
• Plumage Coloration. Overall grey, with darker head, iridescent green/purple neck, and a white rump (visible in flight).
• Wing Bars. Look for two distinct black bars on each wing, a key field mark.
• Legs and Feet. Reddish-pink legs and feet are characteristic.
• Vocalization. Listen for the characteristic soft 'coo-COO-coo' call.
• Behavior. Often seen walking and pecking on the ground in urban areas, or perched on buildings and wires.

Explore the Pidove