Pigeons and Doves in Alaska: An Overview

Alaska, known for its vast wilderness and diverse wildlife, is also home to several species of pigeons and doves. While often associated with urban environments, these birds have adapted to various habitats across the state. This article provides an overview of the pigeon and dove species found in Alaska, their characteristics, and their presence within the Alaskan ecosystem.

Rock Pigeons: The Most Common Urban Bird

The most frequently observed pigeon in Alaska is the Rock Pigeon (Columba livia). Introduced to North America in the 1600s, these birds are now common residents throughout the United States, southern Canada, and even as far west as Alaska. In Alaska, Rock Pigeons are present year-round, with populations peaking between October and April in the southeastern part of the state. Bird Advisors notes they are recorded in 3% of summer checklists and 8% of winter checklists submitted by bird watchers.

Rock Pigeons are easily recognizable, typically displaying a bluish-gray plumage with two black bands on their wings and a black tip on their tail. They also have iridescent throat feathers and orange eyes, though variations in color – including white, spotted, or red – are not uncommon. These birds thrive in close proximity to humans, often found in cities, parks, and backyards where food sources are readily available. Some cities have even implemented ordinances against feeding pigeons due to their potential to develop into pests.

Interestingly, Rock Pigeons possess a remarkable ability to navigate using the Earth’s magnetic field, allowing them to find their way home over long distances.

Eurasian Collared-Doves: A More Recent Arrival

The Eurasian Collared-Dove (Streptopelia decaocto) is another introduced species found in Alaska, primarily in the southeastern region. They have been observed year-round since their arrival in the 1980s, appearing in approximately 1% of both summer and winter bird checklists. Bird Advisors describes them as light brownish-gray with white patches in the tail and a distinctive black half-collar at the nape of the neck.

Eurasian Collared-Doves are slightly larger than Mourning Doves and have a square-shaped tail, unlike the pointed tail of the Mourning Dove. They are adaptable birds, inhabiting both rural and suburban areas, and have a varied diet consisting of seeds, grains, berries, and insects.

Alaska’s Diverse Bird Population

Alaska boasts a rich avian diversity, with a total of 534 bird species recorded as of January 2022. Wikipedia states that of these, 55 are considered rare, 149 are casual, and 79 are accidental. The Willow Ptarmigan is designated as the official state bird of Alaska.

Pigeons in the Alaskan Wilderness

While often seen in urban settings, pigeons’ natural habitat includes caves, cliffs, and crevices. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game notes that in other parts of their range, such as Scotland and the Middle East, pigeons can be found in rural environments like sea cliffs and canyons. Their introduction to Alaska is linked to their domestication and subsequent release or expansion from human-populated areas.

Conclusion

Pigeons and doves, particularly the Rock Pigeon and Eurasian Collared-Dove, have established themselves in Alaska, adapting to both urban and, to a lesser extent, rural environments. As introduced species, their presence reflects the impact of human activity on the Alaskan ecosystem. Continued monitoring and research will be crucial to understanding their long-term effects on the state’s native bird populations.