Meet Our Bird of the Month, the Red-billed Pigeon!

This is no ordinary pigeon—in fact, it's one of those rarer species that, in the U.S., can only be seen here in our area! And did you know the Rio Grande Valley gets eight of the nine species of pigeons and doves found in Texas? Come to our FREE TALK on September 20th to learn why these often overlooked birds deserve our love and attention. See our Events page for details.

 

Fun Facts

• Commonly found in Mexico and Central America, Red-billed Pigeons also venture into the Rio Grande Valley, as well as along the border up to Laredo.

• A large pigeon, they have beautiful purple, pink, and blue-gray coloring.

• The red base of its yellow bill can help distinguish it from its cousin the Rock Pigeon (aka, the common pigeon).

• Somewhat shy, spends its time foraging at the tops of trees and shrubs.

• Eats mostly berries, fruit, acorns, and tree buds, but will come to the ground for crops like sorghum and corn. 

• Their flimsy-looking nests are built by both sexes, with females laying one egg which she incubates at night, while the male incubates it during the day.

• Like other pigeons and doves, they can drink water by sucking it up in one stream, instead of just drinking one "bill-full" at a time like other birds do.

Learn more on the Cornell Lab of Ornithology site.

 

Feeding Tips

• While you're more likely to see one of the other eight species of pigeons and doves around your feeders, Red-billed Pigeons may sometimes be enticed by cracked corn, grain, or seed spread on the ground.

• They may also visit a water feature for a drink. 

 

Visit our webshop to explore our selection of highly nutritious bird foods and quality, durable bird feeders.