Dove vs Pigeon: What's The Difference

By: NDTVNewsDesk

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Scientifically, there is no distinction between doves and pigeons; both are members of the same bird family, Columbidae.

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The names are largely a matter of language, with pigeon originating from French and dove from Germanic/Norse roots.

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Pigeon often refers to larger, more common city birds, while dove is typically used for smaller, more delicate-looking members.

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Pigeons have shorter and more straight tai, while doves have longer and more fanned-out tail.

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Pigeons can have more colourful plumage, including iridescent feathers.

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Doves tend to have more muted colours like grey, white, and brown.

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Doves are typically found in more wooded or rural areas, while pigeons are more commonly found in urban environments.

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Doves can be more solitary and timid, while pigeons are often considered more gregarious and outgoing.

Image: Pexels

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