Why do pigeons puff up their neck?

Pigeons are fascinating creatures that have adapted to urban environments all around the world. They are incredibly intelligent, clean, and strong fliers. One interesting behavior that you may have noticed when observing pigeons is that they sometimes puff up their neck feathers. But why do they do this?

Pigeon Courtship

One reason pigeons puff up their neck is for courtship. Pigeons are monogamous creatures, meaning they mate for life. When a male pigeon is looking for a mate or trying to impress his current partner, he will puff up his neck feathers as a sign of dominance and attractiveness. This behavior is often accompanied by other courting behaviors, such as bowing down in front of the female, turning around, and dragging their tail feathers on the ground.

Communication and Display

Puffing up their neck feathers is also a way for pigeons to communicate with each other. By displaying their feathers in this manner, they can convey various messages to other pigeons. It can be a sign of aggression or territoriality, warning other pigeons to stay away from their space. It can also be a way to establish dominance within a group or to attract the attention of a potential mate.

Color Morphs

Pigeons come in a variety of colors, known as color morphs. There are seven main color morphs that pigeons can have: blue-bar, red-bar, red, spread, white, checkered, and pied. Each color morph has its own unique pattern and coloration. These different colors and patterns are inherited traits that help pigeons blend into their surroundings or attract mates.

Observing Pigeon Behavior

If you’re interested in learning more about pigeons and their behaviors, you can observe them from your window, in a park, or even through online videos. Take note of their courting behaviors, such as cooing, bowing and turning, tail dragging, driving, billing, and mating and clapping. You can also try to identify their color morphs using a checklist or worksheet.

By observing and studying pigeons, we can gain a better understanding of these remarkable birds and their adaptations to urban environments.

If you need assistance with cleaning bird poop, droppings, or nests from your balcony, home, storage, or factory in Bangkok, Bird Poop Cleaning is here to help. Our team specializes in sanitizing, disinfecting, removing, and cleaning bird-related issues. Contact us at hello@khunclean.com or call 082-797-3702 to schedule our services.

Image Source