[EBB Sightings] Color Variation in Band-tailed Pigeons

Greetings Steve,

We usually have a few Band-tailed Pigeons at our feeder next to Sulfur Creek 
in Hayward.  Today there are about 80 in about 2 flocks.  This is the largest 
group here (since 1991), but a few do nest in Eucalyptus (we think) nearby; at 
least we have a small flock of 7 - 9 that bring young to learn how to get the 
good food every year.  The somewhat iridescent, burnished pink to maroon 
color on their chest (described as purplish drab in some texts) may vary from 
light to darker. It appears you have seen one of the darker morphs. Also, males 
are known to be much brighter than the female,  which probably means yours was a 
male.   Some male measuements suggest they are a bit larger (wing and tail 
length averages 4 millimeteres longer in males). Although mass (weight) is 
stated as 13 oz. (Sibley, 2000), my guess is the female averages less.  Something 
to look for would be a change in the chest color (or not).  The Band-tailed 
Pigeon's breeding color we soon/do see is achieved through wear between the fresh 
winter plumage into Spring.  Some other bird species additionally get a rosy 
"patina" on the breast during alternate (breeding) feathering; this is 
destroyed and disappears in sunlight, Mountain Bluebirds and Elegant Terns. 

Looking forward to more of your observations,

Phil E. Gordon
Hayward, ALA Co.
PAGPEG at aol.com


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