A nomad that’s settled in the Cotswolds

SAY the word “pigeon” and what probably comes to mind is the familiar bird pecking around on the high street, or perhaps the collared dove that is so often seen at our garden bird tables. But, while these birds are a common sight in many areas of the world, the pigeon family (Columbidae) includes a wide range of members.

Some of them sport the familiar subtle hues, but others, is one of those species that breaks out from the pigeon stereotypes, both in size and appearance.