The Rock Pigeon was introduced to North America by European settlers in the early 1600s and is now one of the most abundant birds in cities worldwide. Descended from cliff-nesting birds of the Mediterranean, it adapted readily to urban ledges and bridges. It was the first domesticated bird — used for millennia for food, messenger service, and sport — and has served in both World Wars.
Best time to see a Rock Pigeon
The best time to see a Rock Pigeon is February–July, when about 60% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 119,876 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Rock Pigeon? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Rock Pigeon sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
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