Feather Identifier app iconFeather Identifier
Likely Rock Pigeon (also Feral Pigeon or Common Pigeon); identification is tentative from the feather alone.
Likely a long wing flight feather, probably a secondary; exact position is unclear.

Likely Rock Pigeon (also Feral Pigeon or Common Pigeon); identification is tentative from the feather alone.

Kingdom Animalia; Phylum Chordata; Class Aves; Order Columbiformes; Family Columbidae; Genus Columba; Species Columba livia.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Family: Columbidae (pigeons and doves).

Shape
Elongated with a gently rounded, somewhat ragged tip and a noticeably asymmetric vane.
Size
Appears roughly 25–30 cm long in the image; no scale is provided, so this estimate is uncertain. That length would suit a large flight feather of a pigeon-sized bird.
Learn more about Likely Rock Pigeon (also Feral Pigeon or Common Pigeon); identification is tentative from the feather alone. in the encyclopedia →

Found a feather like this?

Identify any feather from a photo, free.

Identify a feather

Description

A long gray flight feather, most consistent with a pigeon or dove, though the image alone does not confirm species. Rock Pigeons are stout birds with two dark wing bars and often iridescent necks; their rapid, direct flight is accompanied by audible wing claps in some displays.

Colour & Pattern

Mostly slate gray-brown, with subtle darker bars or mottling and a pale tan rachis. No obvious iridescence is visible; lighting and wear may affect the apparent color.

Barb Structure

Pennaceous vanes with interlocking barbs; the feather looks worn or separated in places, and no aftershaft is clearly visible.

Rachis & Barb Pattern

The straight, pale central shaft is prominent; gray barbs form broad vanes, with irregular, slightly frayed edges.

Texture & Surface

Appears matte and fairly stiff, with loose or worn barbs near the tip and base.

Feather Placement

Probably from the wing: its long, stiff rachis and asymmetrical vane are typical of flight feathers.

Key Features

Long, asymmetric flight-feather outline, gray-brown coloration, and a pale rachis. These traits suggest a pigeon-sized bird but are not species-diagnostic.

Habitat

Rock Pigeons thrive on cliffs and rocky coasts, but also occupy cities, farms, and other human-modified places; they nest on ledges and buildings.

Geographic Range

Columba livia is native to parts of Europe, North Africa, and western Asia; feral populations now occur worldwide. Many city birds are resident.

Ecological Role

Wild Rock Pigeons forage on seeds and grains and serve as prey for raptors; urban populations are adaptable and widespread. The species is globally secure, though local abundance varies.

Similar Species

Mourning Dove and other pigeon feathers can be similar; size, pattern, and rachis details help, but a single gray feather is rarely conclusive.

Interesting Facts

Rock Pigeons were domesticated thousands of years ago and are the ancestors of domestic and feral pigeons. Their homing ability has been used for message-carrying.

Cultural Significance

Pigeons have a long history in food, sport, and message delivery; their feathers have also been used in crafts and fly-tying. Feather possession and trade may be regulated depending on species and location.

Field Identification Tips

Compare with a complete wing or reliable feather guides and use a ruler for scale. Check local regulations before collecting or keeping wild bird feathers.

Condition Notes

Visible edge wear and some separated barbs; overall condition appears fair. No clear evidence of active growth, fault bars, or contamination is visible.

Likely Rock Pigeon (also Feral Pigeon or Common Pigeon); identification is tentative from the feather alone. | Feather Identifier