10 Common Misconceptions About Pigeons

Pigeons have a significant presence in contemporary culture. Terms like pigeon-toed, pigeon-holed, and stool pigeon are widely used. If you've ever questioned why pigeon-related expressions are so prevalent, just observe your local park or urban area. These birds are ubiquitous.

Pigeons flourish in human-made habitats, making them a common sight wherever people reside. They are widespread across Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. Beyond being subjects of myths and stories, pigeons are also surrounded by numerous false beliefs. Discover the top misconceptions about pigeons and gain new insights about these familiar birds.

10: Pigeons Are Poor Fathers

Unlike many bird species, pigeons are not known for abandoning their partners. They typically mate for life, making it rare for a bonded pair to separate. Male pigeons play a significant role in nest-building, egg incubation, and protecting their family from threats.

Male pigeons also nurture their chicks by producing crop milk, a nutrient-rich fluid made in their throat pouch. This dedication sets them apart from other birds, as they remain actively involved in caring for their offspring.

9: Pigeons Will Explode if Fed Rice

The myth that pigeons and other birds explode after eating uncooked rice has influenced wedding traditions worldwide. The misconception suggests that raw rice expands in their stomachs, causing them to burst, but this is entirely false.

Contrary to popular belief, pigeons can digest uncooked rice, as confirmed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. This ability sets them apart from smaller birds that struggle with raw grains.

Even birds that cannot digest raw rice do not explode from consuming it. So, feel free to celebrate weddings by tossing rice without any concerns.

8: Being Pooped on by a Pigeon Brings Good Luck

While it's challenging to scientifically verify, most agree that being pooped on by anyone or anything is unpleasant. Pigeon droppings are not only foul-smelling but can also pose health risks. According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, inhaling large amounts can lead to severe fungal infections.

Additionally, pigeons often carry parasites that can transfer to humans through their feces. Given the lack of evidence supporting any good luck claims, it's wise to steer clear of areas where pigeons gather, especially during feeding times.

7: Pigeons and Doves Are Divine

This myth is hard to address logically, but its inclusion is necessary due to the frequent appearance of pigeons and doves in ancient scriptures. From Jewish sacrificial rituals to Noah's ark, these birds hold a prominent place in religious narratives worldwide.

Pigeons and doves symbolize peace, purity, faith, and loyalty across various cultures globally. While their sacred status in human societies is hard to explain, pigeons are neither more nor less likely than other creatures to lead us to the afterlife.

6: All Pigeons Are Spies

While it may sound like a conspiracy, this myth about pigeons has some truth to it. Governments and militaries have utilized pigeons for centuries, with their roles often proving crucial in espionage. For instance, before satellites, pigeons equipped with small cameras were flown over enemy areas to gather intelligence.

Pigeons were also widely used as messengers, carrying vital messages between military bases, even during World War II. However, it's highly improbable that the pigeons you see in your local park are covert agents for any government.

5: Pigeons Are Warmongers

Pigeons are deeply embedded in modern culture, with terms like pigeon-toed, pigeon-holed, and stool pigeon being widely used. Their prevalence in human language reflects their ubiquitous presence in urban areas, parks, and public spaces.

Pigeons flourish in human-made environments, making them a common sight across Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. Beyond their roles in myths and legends, they are often misunderstood. Explore our list of common pigeon myths to gain a deeper understanding of these familiar birds.

4: Pigeons All Look Pretty Much Alike

This is a common misconception about these widespread birds. While pigeons are often overlooked due to their prevalence, a closer look reveals a wide range of colors and patterns. The Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology notes that pigeons come in numerous shades, including red, white, blue-black, and gray.

The diversity in pigeon colors stems from centuries of selective breeding by enthusiasts who prized their unique feathers. Given their long history of coexistence with humans—spanning 5,000 to 10,000 years—it's no surprise they've been kept as pets, messengers, and even food sources.

3: Pigeons Can Fly Thousands of Miles Per Day

Pigeons' extraordinary flying skills have led to exaggerated tales about their capabilities. While they possess an impressive homing instinct, they cannot navigate from halfway across the globe as some legends suggest. Instead, they rely on the sun, Earth's magnetic field, and landmarks like tall buildings to travel hundreds of miles back home.

Stories of pigeons flying thousands of miles in a single day are largely myths. In reality, racing pigeons travel at speeds of 40 to 50 miles per hour, with the best covering up to 600 miles in one day, as noted by the Solar Center at Stanford University. While these feats are impressive, pigeons are not the superhuman flyers some stories make them out to be.

2: Pigeons Are Pushovers

Despite their calm demeanor and ability to live alongside humans, pigeons are not to be underestimated. They can attack other birds or even humans when they feel their nest is in danger.

What happens during a pigeon attack? Most aggression is aimed at other pigeons within their hierarchical flock. However, they may also target humans if provoked. This often involves the flock pecking at the intruder, who typically escapes unharmed. While feeding pigeons is fine, avoid angering them. Despite their small size, their numbers can easily overwhelm you.

1: Pigeons Are Stupid

The idea that pigeons are unintelligent is completely false. Extensive scientific research has shown that pigeons rank among the most intelligent animals on the planet. They can learn complex tasks, remember images for years, and even recognize themselves in mirrors—a skill that eludes many animals, including cats, dogs, and young children.

Pigeons' ubiquity might explain why their intelligence is often overlooked, along with their tendency to leave droppings on cars and benches. However, these birds are highly intelligent and well-suited to their environments. Next time you encounter a flock, take a moment to admire these fascinating and often misunderstood creatures.