Buddy the Rock Pigeon
Hatched: September 2022
Arrived at WSWC: October 22, 2022
Sex: Unknown
Buddy found his way to the wildlife center after being found on the ground. Based on his behavior, it was clear the young bird was not raised with his family, but instead, was raised by humans for part of his early development. This kidnapping caused Buddy to imprint on humans, and he doesn't quite understand what it means to be a wild pigeon.
What Is Imprinting?
Imprinting is the process in which a young animal comes to recognize its own kind. There are different kinds of imprinting, but in general, it is when a baby animal learns who its parents are. This then becomes the baby’s identity, who they trust and what they look for in a mate. Many animals go through some type of imprinting process shortly after birth/hatching or when first opening their eyes as infants.
Imprinting in wildlife is extremely dangerous. While an animal may be physically healthy, mental, social and behavioral issues may result in not being released into the wild. They can feel scared, thinking they are humans and may not be able to recognize their peers. As they get older, they may attempt to mate with humans and can become extremely dangerous.
Thankfully, Buddy is adjusting well to life in captivity, and our team continues to monitor his behavior as he grows and becomes part of our education and outreach team.
About Rock and Domestic Pigeons
Size: 9-13 ounces (less than 1 pound)
Lifespan: Typically live two to three years. Oldest known pigeon lived in captivity to be 31!
Diet: Pigeons, both in the wild and captivity, eat mostly seeds and occasionally fruit
Reproduction: Pigeons typically build nests on cliff sides but have adapted to use a variety of human made structures. Males choose a nest site and coo to attract their mate. With an average clutch size of one to three eggs, both parents incubate the eggs and feed their young a special regurgitated food called “crop milk.”
Range: Rock Pigeons live in the wild from southern Canada through South America. Domestic pigeons have been found all over the world for centuries. There are many other types of wild pigeons found in other habitats.
Fun Facts: Rock Pigeons were introduced to the Americas in the 1600s from Europe. Homing Pigeons use a combination of senses, including the smell, sound, position of the sun and even Earth’s magnetic fields to help them find their way home when lost. Pigeons were first domesticated and bred into a variety of fancy breeds in Egypt more than 5,000 years ago. Pigeons are highly intelligent, making them desirable for sport, research and carrying messages.
Although the work of the wildlife center focuses on native wildlife, we have a soft spot in our hearts for pigeons, both domestic and wild. Few domestic rescues have the ability to care for pigeons or adopt them out to responsible homes. The wildlife center permanently cares for several homing and Fancy Pigeons that were discarded by their previous owners or their original homes.
Most of the domestic pigeons that are admitted at the wildlife center are rescued by caring individuals who find the birds alone outdoors. They are often suffering from old wing injuries, wounds, sores, dehydration and in emaciated condition. Generally, the birds have either been released for sport, such as pigeon races and shoots, or were released at ceremonial events, such as weddings and funerals. While some of the trained birds will make it back home, others find themselves lost in a wild world.
Resist the marketing techniques used by those trying to sell pigeon releases for weddings and other events. It isn't the magical moment it looks like. And if you're looking for a feathered company to add to your family, please choose adoption and consider adding a wonderful pigeon to your flock!
