When it comes to identifying juvenile pigeons, there are several key characteristics to look out for depending on the species. Let’s delve into the distinct features of fledgling and juvenile pigeons, specifically focusing on wood pigeons and collared doves.
Wood Pigeons
For wood pigeons, fledglings and juveniles exhibit paler feathering compared to the adults. One notable feature is that they have not yet developed the white neck band that is a hallmark of adult wood pigeons. This difference in plumage coloration makes it easier to differentiate between the young and mature individuals.
Another characteristic to pay attention to when identifying juvenile wood pigeons is their eye color. Juvenile wood pigeons typically have blueish eyes with an oval-shaped pupil, which distinguishes them from the adults. Observing the eye color can provide valuable clues in determining the age of a wood pigeon.
Collared Doves
In the case of collared doves, juvenile individuals closely resemble the adults in terms of overall appearance. However, there is one key difference that sets them apart – the absence of the brown “collar” that gives the species its name. This missing feature is a clear indicator of a juvenile collared dove.
While the plumage of juvenile collared doves may be similar to that of adult birds, the lack of the distinct brown collar makes them easily distinguishable. It is important to observe this specific trait when trying to identify young collared doves in the wild.
Conclusion
In summary, juvenile pigeons, whether they are wood pigeons or collared doves, have unique characteristics that differentiate them from their adult counterparts. By paying attention to details such as plumage coloration, the presence or absence of specific markings like the white neck band or brown collar, and eye color, it is possible to accurately identify and distinguish juvenile pigeons in the wild.
