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Global Animal Guide

Magpie vs Pigeon

Quick answer

It is too close to call. The Magpie and the Pigeon are evenly matched on paper, and in the wild the outcome would come down to size, surprise, and circumstance.

This is a hypothetical, educational comparison based on typical size, strength, and natural weaponry. In the wild these animals rarely meet, and most encounters end without a fight.

Eurasian magpie with black-and-white plumage and iridescent wings perched on a fence Power 20

Bird

Least Concern
Magpie
Weight 230 g
Length 45 cm
Top speed 30 km/h
Strength 8/100
Deadliness 8/100
Intelligence 75/100
Lifespan 21 yr
Rock pigeon with blue-grey plumage and iridescent green-purple neck standing on stone Power 22

Bird

Least Concern
Pigeon
Weight 400 g
Length 35 cm
Top speed 90 km/h
Strength 5/100
Deadliness 3/100
Intelligence 45/100
Lifespan 15 yr

Magpie vs Pigeon compared

Side-by-side comparison of the Magpie and the Pigeon
Attribute Magpie Pigeon
Weight 230 g 400 g
Length 45 cm 35 cm
Top speed 30 km/h 90 km/h
Strength 8/100 5/100
Deadliness 8/100 3/100
Intelligence 75/100 45/100
Lifespan 21 yr 15 yr

Magpie vs Pigeon: common questions

Who would win in a fight, a Magpie or a Pigeon?

It is too close to call. The Magpie and the Pigeon are evenly matched on paper, and in the wild the outcome would come down to size, surprise, and circumstance.

Which is bigger, the Magpie or the Pigeon?

The Pigeon is heavier, weighing around 0.4 kg compared with the other's 0.23 kg.

Which is faster, the Magpie or the Pigeon?

The Pigeon is faster, reaching about 90 km/h versus 30 km/h.

Which lives longer, the Magpie or the Pigeon?

The Magpie typically lives longer, up to around 21 years compared with 15 years.

Sources & references

Size, speed, and conservation data are drawn from established zoological references. Compare full profiles for habitat, diet, and behaviour:

By the Global Animal Guide editorial team Last reviewed How we research & review
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