Identification
Length: 40cm.

The Wood Pigeon is larger than other European pigeons, and is heavily built. They have uniform grey-blue plumage, with a broad white wing-bar and (in adults only) a very pronounced white patch at the side of the neck. The head and rump are darker than the rest of the plumage. Their flanks and belly are pale and their breast is a cloudy wine-red colour. The sides of the neck are an iridescent purple and green. Both tail and flight feathers are black. The legs are ping and the bill has a pink base and yellowish tip. Youngsters are paler and have no black on the neck.

Call
A subdued, rhythmical coo, 'coo-coooo-coo-coo-coo', repeated several times over.

Reproduction
Breeding is from April to September. They nest on hedges or in tress.
They normally lay two white, smooth, slightly shiny eggs. Incubation is shared, although the female undertakes the major part. The squabs or young pigeons are fed on 'pigeon's milk', secreted from the crop.

Habitat
Generally frequents areas fairly well covered with trees, such as woods, thickets and plantations. Also present in meadow, cultivated land, open country, urban parks and gardens.

Natural Food
They eat plant matter, seeds, leaves, fruit, berries, nuts and flowers. They will occasionally eat worms and insects.

Where to Feed
Ground Feed - Scatter food in the open
Table Feeder - Open topped

Suitable Wild Bird Food from the Shop
Ark Wild Bird Mix
Ark Wild Bird XTRA
Ark 'No Grow' Scatter Food
Ark 'No Grow' Scatter XTRA
Ark 'All-Purpose' Mix
Ark Songbird Softbill

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