Colomba livia
Rock Dove is the name now used for the common pigeons found in most major cities of the world. Although Rock Doves are strongly dependent on human habitation they show a surprisingly strong seasonal pattern. From a peak in numbers in March to May, numbers decline to a minimum in November. Rock Doves are most abundant in urban rather than suburban areas and readily breed on sheltered ledges of man-made structures. They feed on food scraps, mainly around the shopping centres, recreational parks and school grounds and appear to be slowly increasing after a decrease that occurred from 1981 to 1989.
The breeding season extends over a broad period with most observations from August onwards, and a few dependent young in late February. R=30. BR=45.
