Traits: Pigeons are smart, sweet birds that tend to be peaceful and pleasant-natured to companion pet birds. Although some will snuggle with their owners, others prefer to be admired from a distance and not to be handled. Because they “hold it” while sitting on their eggs, pigeons can even be potty trained and can wear special “pigeon pants” for this purpose. They may peck at you when trying to draw attention to something. Males of the species are more vocal, whereas females tend to be quieter.
Behavior/Health Concerns: Pigeon droppings are quite messy, and for this reason it is preferable to house them outdoors in a large, safe, enclosed area that can be hosed down easily. Pigeons should have room to fly or be allowed some free-flight time in an enclosed setting. Because rock pigeons love to bathe, they should have access to a large, flat deep dish of clean water a few times per week. Rock pigeons are ground feeders and require a large variety of foods, including pigeon feed, grit and greens in their daily diet. Large pigeon lofts or flight cages are preferable to a standard bird cage for rock pigeons, so they have room to fly.