Why are pigeons such a successful city bird?
Turns out cliffs and tall buildings have a lot in common to the humble pigeon.
Asked by: James Mckenzie, Leighton Buzzard
Pigeons arose from the domestication of rock doves, as early as 10,000 years ago. Having originated from domestic stock, it’s no surprise that the UK’s estimated 18 million feral pigeons are inherently tolerant of humans. Happily living alongside us, these unfussy eaters will flock to areas where people feed them.
The tall concrete buildings within our cities are perfect pigeon territory because they replicate the cliff faces which are still home to wild rock doves in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
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