Red-billed Pigeon (Patagioenas flavirostris)

The Red-billed :Pigeon is a large pigeon found mostly in Mexico and Central America. In the United States, their range just crosses into the far southern edge of Texas, where they are found in the woodlands along the Rio Grande river on the Mexican border. They lack some of the distinctive markings seen on other large pigeon species that are found in North America, but can be identified by the rusty tones on their head, neck, and breast, and the small red bill with a pale tip.

Habitat

Found in woodlands and areas of tall shrubs in their limited United States range. In the rest of their range, they can be found in a variety of woodland types.

Diet

Feeds on fruits and berries, as well as acorns, nuts, and seeds.

Behavior

Forages in the foliage of trees and shrubs, moving from branch to branch in search of fruit and berries. They will also sometimes feed on the ground.

Nesting

The nest of a Red-billed Pigeon is a platform of sticks and grasses, placed in a tree or large shrub. The female usually lays one egg, and both parents help to incubate it. When the egg hatches, both parents will help to feed it.

Song

The song of a Red-billed Pigeon is a series of hoarse cooing

Migration

Considered a permanent resident throughout most of its range. Some birds at the far northern end of the breeding range may move south for the winter, however.

Interactive eBird Map

Click here to access an interactive eBird map of Red-billed Pigeon sightings

Similar Species

Rock Dove , Band-tailed Pigeon

Conservation Status

Populations appear to be in decline. However, populations haven't declined sufficiently to consider the species in imminent danger. The IUCN lists the Red-billed Pigeon as a species of "Least Concern".

Photo Information

Photo taken by Michael Woodruff - July 15th, 2008 - Costa Rica - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution ShareAlike 2.0 Generic License .