When people think about pigeons, the word “pretty” doesn’t usually come to mind.
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These poor birds have a bad rep and are widely regarded as pests. In reality, they’re actually gentle, sweet, and even stunning! Hundreds of different pigeon breeds live around the world, and some of them are so beautiful they take our breath away. Don’t take our word for it! Check out these 20 spectacular animals below.
1. The Victoria crowned pigeon.
Native to New Guinea, these birds make whooping sounds.
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2. The Jacobin pigeon.
Originating in Asia, this breed is known for its feathered hood.
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3. The Indian Fantail.
A descendant of the rock dove, this breed started out in India.
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4. The Nicobar pigeon.
As one observer aptly put it, it’s “like a mix of peacock and pigeon!”
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5. The spinifex pigeon.
These Australian birds are social and usually live in groups of four to 20.
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6. A red and white roller pigeon.
Roller pigeons get their name from their ability to roll in the air.
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7. The pied imperial pigeon.
These birds from Southeast Asia are considered large and can weigh more than a pound.
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8. The pink-necked green pigeon.
Also from Southeast Asia, only males of this species have pink necks.
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9. The Lahore pigeon.
Coming from Iran, this fancy breed is a popular pet among pigeon lovers.
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10. Archangel pigeons.
This breed gets its name from its contrasting feather colors.
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11. The common bronzewing pigeon.
These are actually Australia’s most common pigeons!
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12. The Old Dutch Capuchine.
Popular in Malaysia and Singapore, this breed has a feathered hood and a head crest.
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13. The African green pigeon.
As you might have noticed, this breed bears a striking resemblance to the African green parrot!
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14. The Ice pigeon.
These birds get their color from feather dust.
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15. The English Trumpeter.
These pigeons are quite popular in the U.S.
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16. The western, or blue, crowned pigeon.
This beauty is the official provincial bird of Western New Guinea.
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17. A blue bar Frillback pigeon.
Frillbacks come in a variety of colors, including brown, yellow, and blue, as seen below.
Wikipedia
18. The South German Monk.
Can you guess how this pigeon got its name?
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19. Yellow-footed green pigeons.
This colorful species is the state bird of Maharashtra, India.
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20. The English Carrier pigeon.
This breed has several prominent features, including a long neck.
Wikipedia
Who knew pigeons could be so gorgeous? We’ll definitely think twice about calling them pests from now on.
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