Day 59: Rock Pigeon

Rock Pigeons (sometimes called Rock Doves) were originally found wild in Europe, North Africa, and western Asia. Pigeons were domesticated as a result of artificial selection by humans, and they were first introduced to North America in the early 17th-century by colonists who brought domestic pigeons to Atlantic coast settlements. When released or escaped, domestic pigeons quickly go feral, and populations have spread throughout North America and the world.

Wild Rock Pigeons are pale grey with two black bars on each wing. Pure wild species are scarce, however, partly due to interbreeding with feral birds. Their neck and wing feathers have a glossy yellowish, greenish, and reddish-purple iridescence, and domestic and feral pigeons can vary greatly in body size and plumage color. There are few visible differences between males and females.

Over the years, domesticated Rock Pigeons have been utilized as homing pigeons, carrier pigeons, and war pigeons. According to Wikipedia, "many pigeons have received bravery awards and medals for their services in saving hundreds of human lives: including, notably, the British pigeon Cher Ami who received the Croix de Guerre for his heroic actions during World War I, and the Irish Paddy and the American G.I. Joe, who both received the Dickin Medal, amongst 32 pigeons to receive this medallion, for their gallant and brave actions during World War II."