Common Wood Pigeon (Woodpigeon, Ringdove)

The Wood Pigeon is a large, plump pigeon with a distinctive white neck patch and white wing bars. These tail feathers reflect its robust size (wingspan 75-80 cm). In flight, they are known for their loud clapping wingbeats and display a broad, grey tail with a dark terminal band.

Predominantly cool grey-brown (taupe) with distinctive white/creamy-white outer margins and bases. This bi-colored pattern is characteristic of the outer tail feathers of the species.

Pennaceous structure; tightly interlocked barbs creating a firm vane for flight stability. Bases show short plumulaceous (downy) sections for insulation.

Smooth, matte surface with a slightly waxy feel. The vane is moderately rigid but flexible enough to withstand wind pressure during maneuvers.

Large size (16-18cm), neutral grey-brown coloration with clear white outer edges, and a thick, light-colored rachis. Lack of iridescent sheen or spotting.

Found in a wide variety of habitats including agricultural wheat fields, woodlands, parks, gardens, and urban green spaces.

Widespread across Europe, including Sweden, North Africa, and Western Asia. Northern populations are partially migratory while Southern populations are residents.

Primary seed and grain consumer (graminivore). They play a significant role as a prey species for raptors like Goshawks and Peregrine Falcons.

Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) - feathers are usually shorter and darker; Feral Pigeon - highly variable but usually lack the specific clean white outer-vane margins of the Wood Pigeon.

The 'wing-clapping' sound heard when they take off is actually the tips of the wings hitting each other over the bird's back. They are one of the few birds that can produce 'pigeon milk' to feed their young.

Good to Fair condition. There is visible wear/separation of the barbs (splits) near the tips, likely due to ground contact or natural wear prior to molting.

found in large open wheat field in sweden. approx 16-18cm or so