Backyard Birds

Laurel Pigeons

The Laurel Pigeon (Columba junoniae) is endemic to the Canary Islands.

At 40-43 cm, a Laurel Pigeon looks like a very dark Wood Pigeon. It is a basically dark brown bird, with a dark pink breast. The lack of any white markings, together with its darker markings, distinguish it from the other species.

Brown, rather than dark grey plumage, and the lack of dark bands on the grey tail distinguish it from the other pigeon endemic to the Canary Islands, Bolle’s Pigeon.

A Laurel Pigeon’s flight is quick and performed by regular beats. An occasional sharp flick of the wings is characteristic of pigeons in general.

Breeding / Nesting

It is a rare resident breeder in the mountain laurel forest zone, where it builds its stick nest up in trees. The hen usually only lays one white egg.

Calls / Vocalizations

They will often take off with a loud clattering. Its call is a hoarse hiccuped cooing.

(Columbidae – Please see also Doves)

Pigeon InformationPigeon Intelligence & Amazing FactsSpecies / BreedsBreed Photo Gallery

 
 
 

Gordon Ramel

Gordon is an ecologist with two degrees from Exeter University. He's also a teacher, a poet and the owner of 1,152 books. Oh - and he wrote this website.

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