Plain pigeon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Plain pigeon |
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| P. i. wetmorei in Puerto Rico | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Patagioenas
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| Species: |
inornata
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The plain pigeon (Patagioenas inornata) is a type of bird that belongs to the Columbidae family, which includes all pigeons and doves. You can find this bird in the four main islands of the Greater Antilles: Cuba, Hispaniola (which includes the Dominican Republic and Haiti), Jamaica, and Puerto Rico.
These pigeons live in different natural places. They like forests, woodlands, coastal desert areas, and even swampy places with mangroves. Sadly, the plain pigeon is facing threats. Its home is disappearing because of habitat loss, and it is also in danger from illegal hunting.
Meet the Plain Pigeon: What It Looks Like
The plain pigeon is a fairly large bird, about 38 centimeters (15 inches) long. It looks a bit like the common city pigeon you might see around. From a distance, it appears mostly pale blue-gray.
If you look closely, you'll see that its head, the back of its neck, its chest, and part of its folded wing have a pretty red-wine color. When its wing is folded, you can see a white edge. When the bird flies, this white edge forms a clear stripe on its wing. Its legs and feet are a dark red color.
Female plain pigeons are usually a little smaller and not as brightly colored as the males. Young pigeons, called juveniles, are generally browner. They also have pale edges on their wings and dark eyes.
Plain Pigeon Family Tree: Subspecies
Scientists believe the plain pigeon is a newer version of other pigeons. It might have adapted from the red-billed pigeon or the Maranon pigeon. These related pigeons live in Central and South America.
There are three different types, or subspecies, of the plain pigeon:
- P. i. inornata: This type lives in Cuba and Hispaniola.
- P. i. exigua: This type is found in Jamaica.
- P. i. wetmorei: This type lives in Puerto Rico.
Back in the 1970s, the P. i. wetmorei subspecies was almost gone. It was very close to extinction. But a special conservation program was started to help save these birds. Thanks to these efforts, there are now a few thousand of them!
