Quick answer
Pigeons (Columba livia) are birds found across Europe, Asia, Africa. The city bird with an extraordinary sense of direction. Adults typically weigh 300–500 g (11–18 oz), reach speeds of 90 km/h (56 mph), faster when racing, and live 3–5 years wild (up to 15). They feed on granivore (seeds, grain, scraps) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. The wild rock dove is native to Europe, North Africa, and southwest Asia; feral pigeons now live in cities on every continent except Antarctica.
Key takeaway
Pigeons (Columba livia) are birds found across Europe, Asia, Africa. The city bird with an extraordinary sense of direction. Adults typically weigh 300–500 g (11–18 oz), reach speeds of 90 km/h (56 mph), faster when racing, and live 3–5 years wild (up to 15). They feed on granivore (seeds, grain, scraps) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. The wild rock dove is native to Europe, North Africa, and southwest Asia; feral pigeons now live in cities on every continent except Antarctica.
Pigeon overview
Pigeon (Columba livia) is a bird listed here as Least Concern. Typical weight 300–500 g (11–18 oz); lifespan around 3–5 years wild (up to 15).
Pigeon ecology
Diet: Granivore (seeds, grain, scraps). Habitat: Cities, cliffs, farmland worldwide. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Pigeons and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild pigeons are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Least Concern. See the full Pigeon profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Range and habitat
Pigeons inhabit The wild rock dove is native to Europe, North Africa, and southwest Asia; feral pigeons now live in cities on every continent except Antarctica. Their preferred habitat includes cities, cliffs, farmland worldwide, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas and intact corridors remain essentia
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult pigeons typically measure about 0.35 m in length and weigh 300–500 g (11–18 oz). They can sprint at 90 km/h (56 mph), faster when racing when hunting or escaping predators. Pigeons are known for the city bird with an extraordinary sense of direction — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
Pigeon FAQs
What are key facts about pigeons?
Pigeons (Columba livia) are birds found across Europe, Asia, Africa. The city bird with an extraordinary sense of direction. Adults typically weigh 300–500 g (11–18 oz), reach speeds of 90 km/h (56 mph), faster when racing, and live 3–5 years wild (up to 15). They feed on granivore (seeds, grain, scraps) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. The wild rock dove is native to Europe, North Africa, and southwest Asia; feral pigeons now live in cities on every continent except Antarctica.
What is the scientific name of the pigeon?
Columba livia — used in research and conservation listings for pigeons.
What do pigeons eat?
Pigeons eat seeds, grain and scraps, with seasonal and regional variation in Cities, cliffs, farmland worldwide.
Where do pigeons live?
They are associated with Cities, cliffs, farmland worldwide. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of pigeons?
Listed in our guides as Least Concern. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.