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>Hello, Sohib EditorOnline! In this article, we will discuss the ways to differentiate between male and female pigeons. Pigeons belong to the bird family Columbidae, and they are known for their distinctive cooing sound and their use as messengers in the past. Pigeons are also kept as pets and for racing purposes. Knowing how to tell the difference between a male and a female pigeon is important if you want to breed them or if you plan on keeping them together.

Anatomy of Pigeons

Before we dive into how to tell the difference between male and female pigeons, let’s take a closer look at their anatomy. Pigeons have a unique body structure that allows them to fly for long periods of time. They have a streamlined body shape, with a large breastbone and strong wings. Their legs are short and located towards the back of their body, which makes it easier for them to take off while on the ground.

Pigeons have a small head with a sharp beak that is used to peck at food. Their eyes are located on the sides of their head and have a 360-degree field of vision. Pigeons also have a unique ability to drink water without having to raise their heads to swallow, thanks to a special valve in their throat.

The Difference Between Male and Female Pigeons

Male and female pigeons can be differentiated by their physical characteristics. Here are some of the ways to tell them apart:

Size

Male pigeons are generally larger than female pigeons. However, this is not always the case, as there are many breeds of pigeons where the size difference between males and females is insignificant. It’s important to note that size is not a reliable indicator of gender, as there are many other factors that can influence a pigeon’s size.

Head

The head of a male pigeon is generally bigger and rounder than that of a female pigeon. Male pigeons also tend to have more prominent eyebrows and a thicker neck. Female pigeons, on the other hand, have a smaller and flatter head, with a slimmer neck.

Beak

Male pigeons have a thicker and larger beak than female pigeons. This is because male pigeons need a stronger beak to attract females during mating season. Female pigeons, on the other hand, have a thinner and smaller beak, which is better suited for picking up small seeds and grains.

Breast

Male pigeons have a fuller and more rounded breast than female pigeons. This is due to the fact that male pigeons have larger muscles in their breast, which they use to power their strong wings during flight. Female pigeons, on the other hand, have a flatter and less rounded breast.

Cooing

Male pigeons tend to coo more frequently and loudly than female pigeons. This is because male pigeons use their distinctive cooing sound to attract females during mating season. Female pigeons, on the other hand, coo less frequently and softly.

FAQ

How can I tell if my pigeon is male or female?

You can tell if your pigeon is male or female by looking at their physical characteristics. Male pigeons are generally bigger than female pigeons, with a bigger and rounder head, thicker and larger beak, fuller and more rounded breast, and more frequent and louder cooing. Female pigeons, on the other hand, have a smaller and flatter head, thinner and smaller beak, flatter and less rounded breast, and less frequent and softer cooing.

Can male and female pigeons be kept together?

Yes, male and female pigeons can be kept together. However, it’s important to keep in mind that pigeons can breed very quickly, so it’s best to keep them in pairs or small groups to prevent unwanted breeding.

How often do pigeons mate?

Pigeons mate frequently throughout the year, with a peak in activity during the spring and summer months. Male pigeons attract females by cooing and showing off their plumage, and they will mate with multiple females if given the opportunity.

How long do pigeons live?

Pigeons have an average lifespan of 3-5 years in the wild, but they can live up to 15 years in captivity with proper care and nutrition.

What is the difference between a pigeon and a dove?

Pigeons and doves belong to the same family, Columbidae, but they are different species. Pigeons are generally larger than doves, with a more robust body and a distinctive cooing sound. Doves, on the other hand, are smaller and have a softer, more melodic call.

Conclusion

Differentiating between male and female pigeons is important if you plan on breeding them or keeping them together. By examining their physical characteristics, you can easily tell the difference between a male and a female pigeon. However, it’s important to keep in mind that size is not always a reliable indicator of gender, and that there can be significant variation within different breeds of pigeons.

Cara Membedakan Merpati Jantan dan Betina