The terms “dove” and “pigeon” are often used interchangeably, leading to widespread confusion about whether they represent distinct bird species. This article aims to clarify the scientific connection between doves and pigeons, exploring their shared ancestry and the perceived differences that shape everyday language.
Understanding Their Family Tree
Doves and pigeons belong to the same bird family, Columbidae. This family is the only one within the order Columbiformes. Members of Columbidae are characterized by their stout bodies, small heads, relatively short necks, and slender bills. The common names “dove” and “pigeon” are largely colloquial, with no strict biological separation between them.
The distinction between calling a bird a “dove” or a “pigeon” often comes down to size, with smaller species typically referred to as doves and larger ones as pigeons. This naming convention is a linguistic tradition, not a biological classification. For instance, the familiar city pigeon is scientifically known as the Rock Dove (Columba livia), highlighting the fluidity of these common terms.
Key Differences in Appearance and Behavior
While scientifically part of the same family, certain general tendencies contribute to the perceived differences between birds commonly called “pigeons” and those called “doves.” Pigeons, like the Rock Dove, are typically larger and more robust, often thriving in urban environments where they forage on the ground. Their plumage can vary widely, including shades of gray, black, white, and brown.
Doves, such as the Mourning Dove or Collared Dove, are generally perceived as smaller and more slender in comparison. They often have a more delicate appearance and are associated with gentler cooing sounds. Both pigeons and doves share common behaviors such as feeding primarily on seeds and grains and building relatively simple nests. Uniquely, both sexes in the Columbidae family produce a nutritious “crop milk” to feed their young.
The Meaning of “White Pigeon”
The symbolic “white dove,” frequently associated with peace and often released at ceremonies, is in fact a domesticated form of the Rock Dove. This bird, scientifically named Columba livia domestica, is a color variant of the same species that includes the common gray urban pigeon. The white plumage is a result of selective breeding rather than a distinct species.
Businesses involved in “dove release” events typically utilize these white domestic pigeons due to their homing abilities. Therefore, a “white dove” is, from a scientific standpoint, a white pigeon.