The Band-tailed Pigeon is the largest native pigeon in North America, a forest species of the Pacific Coast and mountains that travels in noisy, fast-flying flocks among oak and conifer forests. It has a distinctive white crescent on the back of the neck and a yellow bill with a black tip. It was nearly hunted to extinction in the early 20th century; populations have recovered but remain below historical levels.
Best time to see a Band-tailed Pigeon
The best time to see a Band-tailed Pigeon is February–July, when about 64% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 13,884 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Band-tailed Pigeon? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Band-tailed Pigeon sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a Band-tailed Pigeon? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.
Get HuckGet an alert when a Band-tailed Pigeon is spotted
Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.
Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.
Love birds? Get Huck field notes
Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.