How to Identify a Baby Pigeon: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to identify a baby pigeon, also known as a squab. Understanding the traits and characteristics of baby pigeons can help you tell them apart from adults and take necessary actions if you encounter one in need.

Size and Shape

Like many baby birds, baby pigeons are generally smaller than adult pigeons but possess a similar body shape. These tiny creatures have a round body and a small head that gives them a distinct appearance. As they grow, their size will increase, but early in life, this is a useful characteristic to watch for.

Feathers

Upon hatching, baby pigeons, or squabs, are mostly featherless. They are born covered in a soft, fine material similar to down but not yet adult feathers. This fluff will develop and eventually be replaced by full adult plumage. The youngster's color is also typically more muted compared to the vibrant colors of adult pigeons.

Eyes

The eyes of baby pigeons are one of their most recognizable features. Initially, their eyes are tightly shut, but they open as they mature. Baby pigeons have larger eyes relative to their head size compared to adult pigeons, which can be an indicator of their young age.

Beak

The beak of a baby pigeon is shorter and less pronounced than that of an adult pigeon. It is often softer and less developed. The beak can also appear to be slightly curved, which is a characteristic that differs significantly from the straight beak of an adult pigeon.

Behavior

Observing the behavior of a baby pigeon can be a key factor in identifying one. Baby pigeons are typically found in nests and are less mobile than their adult counterparts. They rely on their parents for feeding, which usually consists of crop milk, a regurgitated mixture of the parent's food.

Location

The most likely place to find a baby pigeon is in an urban setting, especially in areas where pigeons are common. If you encounter a pigeon that appears to be a juvenile, it will likely be found in a nest or near one. It's important to note that baby pigeons are only found in nests or near them for the duration of their time in the nest, which typically extends for several weeks until they fledge.

When to Contact Wildlife Rehabilitators

If you come across a baby pigeon that seems abandoned or in distress, it's best to contact a local wildlife rehabilitator for guidance. These professionals are trained to provide the necessary care and handling to ensure the well-being of the baby pigeon until it can be released back into the wild.

Additional Information

Just like with many other bird species, baby pigeons are born with a pinkish or dark skin. Their bodies are initially covered with a whitish or yellowish hair-like substance that later develops into mature feathers. As they start to grow and develop into juveniles, their bodies take on a more recognizable pigeon shape.

Baby pigeons remain in the nest for weeks and only leave when they are ready to fledge. At this point, they look almost similar to adult pigeons but are still somewhat smaller and more delicate. If you live in an area with a significant pigeon population, chances are you've seen a fledgling pigeon before, but you may not have recognized them as such due to their similarity in appearance to adult pigeons.

Conclusion

By understanding the essential characteristics of baby pigeons, you can easily differentiate them from adult pigeons. Recognizing these traits can help you provide the appropriate care or seek professional help if needed, ensuring the well-being of the baby pigeon.