Woodpigeon
Columba livia
Length 41cm

A plump, medium-sized pigeon, common and familiar on farmland and increasingly seen in urban areas too. Plumage mainly blue-grey with pinkish maroon on breast. Has distinctive white patch on side of neck and, in flight, shows prominent, transverse white wingbars. When disturbed, flies off with loud clattering of wings. During breeding season sings typical series of oo-OO-oo, oo-oo phrases. Builds twig nest on horizontal branches; despite apparent fragility, often still intact, and more visible, in winter. Feeds on seeds and shoots.