Rock dove

Scientific name: Columba livia

How weight is recorded: Whole weight

Field notes

Appearance

Rock doves typically display slate-blue plumage on the head and neck with iridescent green and purple sheen, white rump, and two black wing bars. Considerable colour variation exists; feral populations show white, red, brown, and pied morphs. Males are generally larger and more robust than females.

Size and weight

Adults weigh 300–500 g; body length 20–26 cm. Males average slightly heavier than females.

Habitat

Rock doves inhabit urban and periurban environments, coastal cliffs, and rocky outcrops. They favour areas with building structures, bridges, and stone faces that provide roosting and nesting ledges.

Distribution

Originally native to coastal Mediterranean and Atlantic cliffs, rock doves are now cosmopolitan in distribution. Feral populations are established worldwide in urban centres, harbours, and agricultural zones.

Diet

Rock doves feed primarily on cereal grains, seeds, and discarded human food; they also take legumes and green vegetation opportunistically.

Behaviour

Rock doves are highly gregarious, diurnal foragers that roost communally on ledges and structures. They exhibit strong site fidelity and are capable fliers with rapid, direct flight patterns.

Hunting tips

Scout feeding areas early morning and late afternoon when birds leave roosts; listen for characteristic cooing calls. Look for whitewash (droppings) and feather debris on ledges beneath roosts to locate concentrations. Approach using available cover and structures; birds flush readily, so stillness and patient glassing of roosting sites yields better results than active stalking.

Whole weight

This species is logged by whole weight — the animal weighed entire, as taken.

Where it is hunted

Listed as huntable in 16 countries in Huntify.

Names in other languages

These field notes are general species knowledge, not legal advice. Always check the current seasons, quotas and firearm rules where you hunt.