Pigeons and doves are commonly confused for one another due to their similar appearances. However, there are distinct differences between the two types of birds. Doves tend to be smaller and slimmer than pigeons, with pointed tails and tapered wings. The coloration also tends to differ, with most doves having soft, pastel plumage compared to the bolder greys and iridescent colors of many pigeons. That being said, there are some pigeon species and breeds that do closely resemble doves in size, proportions, and coloring.
Pigeons That Resemble Doves
Here are some of the pigeon varieties that can be mistaken for doves based on visual characteristics:
- Diamond doves – These small pigeons have a delicate build and feathers in soft greys and tans. Their typical “diamond” markings on the wings are similar to many dove species.
- Fantails – While fantail pigeons come in many color varieties, the white and piebald forms resemble white doves. Their fanned tail and body shape also give them a graceful, dove-like look.
- Oriental frill pigeons – With a round body and frilly head feathers, these pigeons take on a plump, decorative appearance akin to ornamental doves.
- Nuns – Solid black, white, or piebald coloration gives these pigeons understated, dove-like plumage. They have a rounded body shape as well.
- Ringneck doves – Despite their name, ringneck doves are actually a domesticated form of the Barbary dove, which is a pigeon species. They have nearly identical visual features as many common doves.
In addition to these distinct breeds, many common feral or free-ranging pigeons demonstrate color variations that can cause them to resemble doves. The classic grey pigeon most recognize has many melanistic variants that are solid white, tan, or black in color. White pigeons in particular are difficult to distinguish from white doves at a distance.
Differences Between Doves and Pigeons
While the pigeons listed above share visual qualities with doves, there are still clear differences between the two groups of birds:
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These physical differences stem from the distinct lifestyles of doves and pigeons. Doves are generally smaller birds that feed on seeds, fruits, and greens. They evolve delicate bills and agile bodies adapted for perching and foraging. Pigeons are larger, more opportunistic feeders adapted to walking on the ground and even feeding on refuse. They have chunkier builds and bills.
Doves also tend to have different nesting and parenting behaviors than pigeons. Doves rarely produce crop milk to feed their chicks, while pigeons have the ability to produce this specialized secretion high in fat and protein content. Parental care also differs, with doves only raising two chicks at a time while pigeons can raise multiple broods.
Shared Genetics Between Doves and Pigeons
While there are clear physical and behavioral differences between doves and pigeons, they are considered close genetic relatives. In fact, doves like mourning doves are classified in the same Columbidae family as pigeons. Genetic research has revealed that pigeons and doves diverged from a common ancestor only about 40 million years ago.
This shared genetic lineage enables some interbreeding between doves and pigeons in captivity. One example is the cross between a male ring-necked dove and a female pigeon, which produces hybrid “dove-pigeons.” However, the two species have evolved enough reproductive isolation that viable or fertile hybrids are uncommon in the wild.
Dove-Like Pigeons in Culture
Throughout history, dove-like pigeons have held significance as symbols of purity, gentleness, and grace in many cultures. Their visual resemblance to doves has imbued them with similar symbolism and meaning.
One iconic example is the fantail pigeon. Originating in India, fantail pigeons were treasured pets of nobility, who regarded their fanned tails and white plumage as a sign of divine purity. In Christianity, white fantail pigeons represented the Holy Spirit.
Diamond doves have also been valued as pets and symbols. In ancient Mesopotamia, these charming little dovelings were seen as a sign of love and fertility. They still retain associations with romance and affection.
Today, all types of dove-like pigeons continue to be favored as ornamental breeds. Their graceful appearance and associations with peacefulness and femininity make them sought-after pets and exhibition birds.
Conclusion
While no pigeons are completely identical to doves, some pigeon breeds and color variants do share remarkably similar visual features. Dovelike pigeons tend to be smaller in size with rounded, tapering bodies, soft plumage, and pointed tails. Breeds like diamond doves, oriental frills, and fantails take on a delicate, feminine appearance comparable to many doves. However, differences in size, proportions, behavior, and genetics mean that they remain distinct from true doves in the Columbidae family. Their visual resemblance has nonetheless imbued them with symbolic meaning in cultures across the world.
