Doves and Pigeons

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Doves and Pigeons
Columbidae
The Winged Emblems of Peace and Resilience: Doves and Pigeons (Columbidae) are among the most familiar birds in the world, found in nearly every habitat, from dense rainforests to bustling city streets. While the terms "dove" and "pigeon" are often used interchangeably, doves are generally smaller and more slender, while pigeons tend to be larger and stockier. Regardless of size, all members of this family share a gentle demeanor, strong flight abilities, and a fascinating evolutionary history. One of the most famous species, the Rock Pigeon (Columba livia), has traveled the globe alongside humans for thousands of years, serving as messengers, symbols of peace, and even war-time couriers. Meanwhile, exotic species like the Victoria Crowned Pigeon (Goura victoria) of New Guinea dazzle with their vibrant blue plumage and regal crests. Doves and Pigeons are remarkable parents, feeding their young with "pigeon milk," a nutrient-rich secretion produced in their crop. This adaptation allows their chicks to grow rapidly and thrive in various environments. Many species, such as the Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura), are known for their soothing coos, while fruit doves and imperial pigeons play a crucial role in seed dispersal, helping to regenerate forests. Despite their adaptability, some species, like the Pink Pigeon (Nesoenas mayeri) of Mauritius, have faced the brink of extinction due to habitat loss and hunting. Conservation efforts continue to protect these vital birds, ensuring that their soft calls and graceful flights remain a part of our world for generations to come.
African Green Pigeon

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Bare-eyed Pigeon

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Barred Dove

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Blue-spotted Wood Dove

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Bruce's Green Pigeon

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Cape Turtle Dove

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Common Bronzewing

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Common Ground Dove

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Common Wood Pigeon

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Dusky Turtle-Dove

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Eared Dove

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Emerald Dove

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Emerald-spotted Wood Dove

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Eurasian Collared Dove

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European Turtle Dove

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Galapagos Dove

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Green Imperial Pigeon

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Grey-fronted Dove

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Grey-fronted Quail-Dove

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Laughing Dove

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Madagascar Blue Pigeon

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Madagascar Turtle Dove

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Mindanao Bleeding-Heart Dove

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Mourning Dove

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Namaqua Dove

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Nicobar Pigeon

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Pacific Imperial Pigeon

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Pale-vented Pigeon

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Peaceful Dove

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Picui Ground Dove

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Pink-necked Green Pigeon

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Pink Pigeon

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Plain-breasted Ground Dove

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Red-eyed Dove

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Rock Pigeon

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Scaled Dove

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Speckled Pigeon

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Spotted Dove

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Stock Pigeon

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Western Spotted Dove

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White-collared Pigeon

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White-throated Ground Dove

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White-tipped Dove

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White-winged Dove

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Yellow-legged Green Pigeon

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Zebra Dove

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Zenaida Dove

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