Rock Dove vs Wood Pigeon

The Rock Dove, the wild ancestor of domestic pigeons, is now rare in the UK, with feral populations dominating urban areas. It can be identified by its blue-grey plumage, two black wing bars, a white rump, and iridescent green and purple neck patches. Measuring 29-37 cm in length, it is smaller and slimmer than the Wood Pigeon. Rock Doves are typically found in coastal, grassland, mountain, and urban habitats. In contrast, the Wood Pigeon is larger, plumper, and more common across the UK. It has a grey body with a pinkish breast and distinctive white neck patches edged with iridescent green and purple. In flight, its broad white wing bars are conspicuous against grey wings. Wood Pigeons measure 38-44 cm and are widespread in woodlands, parks, gardens, and farmland. Confusion may arise in urban settings, but size, neck markings, and wing pattern are reliable field marks to separate the two.