Pigeons are a very common sight throughout the Hawaiian Islands, particularly in major urban and suburban areas. These birds are a pervasive element of the local avifauna, frequently observed in high-traffic tourist locations, parks, and city centers across the main islands. They have become one of the most recognizable birds people encounter daily in environments modified by human activity.
Common Species Found in Hawaii
The birds generally referred to as “pigeons” in the islands include three primary introduced members of the dove and pigeon family (Columbidae). The most recognizable is the Feral Pigeon, also known as the Rock Dove (Columba livia), which is the familiar stout bird seen congregating in large flocks in dense urban centers like downtown Honolulu. These birds are often found roosting and nesting on the ledges and overhangs of tall buildings.
The smaller Spotted Dove (Spilopelia chinensis) and the diminutive Zebra Dove (Geopelia striata) are also abundant throughout the islands. Spotted Doves are medium-sized with a distinctive black patch on the neck containing white spots, and they are frequently located in suburban settings, parks, and agricultural lands. The Zebra Dove, characterized by its fine black and white barring, is considered one of the most common and widely distributed birds in Hawaii, thriving in open low-lying areas and backyards.
How Pigeons Arrived in Hawaii
All common pigeon and dove species found in Hawaii are non-native, having been deliberately introduced by humans over the last few centuries. The Feral Pigeon was the first to arrive, with records suggesting introduction occurred as early as 1788 or 1796 via ships from China and Europe. These initial arrivals were domestic birds, often brought in as a source of food (squab) or released from captivity by pigeon fanciers.
The Spotted Dove, originating in Southeast Asia, was introduced later in the late 1800s, followed by the Zebra Dove in 1922. These introductions were sometimes for ornamental purposes or simply released pets that quickly established wild populations. The tropical climate of the islands, coupled with a lack of natural predators, provided an ideal environment for these introduced species to multiply and successfully colonize the archipelago.
Ecological Impact and Management
The proliferation of these non-native birds creates several challenges for the Hawaiian ecosystem and populated areas. In natural habitats, introduced doves and pigeons compete directly with native bird species for limited resources such as food and nesting sites. This competition places pressure on native bird populations that have evolved in isolation.
In urban environments, large flocks of Feral Pigeons are viewed as a nuisance, mainly due to the accumulation of their droppings, known as guano. The uric acid content in guano is corrosive, leading to property damage, including the deterioration of metal and painted surfaces on buildings and infrastructure. Furthermore, the sheer volume of nesting material and droppings can block gutters and drains, resulting in maintenance issues and potential structural damage.
Pigeons and doves can also act as vectors for various diseases and parasites that can be transmitted to humans and native wildlife. Managing these established populations typically involves a range of non-lethal control measures implemented by city authorities and property owners. These strategies include installing physical deterrents like netting and spikes on building ledges, enforcing feeding bans, and attempting population reduction through fertility control methods.