Whether you are a bird enthusiast or not, the different types of pigeons are a common sight. They can be found throughout the world, in cities and towns, as well as in parks, backyards, public buildings, and street corners.
However, since there are plenty of varieties of pigeon breeds in existence, it can be tricky to determine what type you are looking at. In fact, it may come down to a few subtle differences that set one apart from wild pigeons.
Fortunately for you — and your bird-watching hobby — this article will help you identify 59 types of pigeons. From fancy breeds to homing ones and even domestic pigeons, you will be able to spot these wild birds from afar.
The 59 Types of Pigeons
1. Homing Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Homing |
| Origin: | Europe and North Africa |
| Small to medium- | |
| Color: | White, gray, black, or a combination |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Racing, messaging, and showing |
| Price: | $150 – $1,000 |
At the top of this list of pigeon types is the Homing Pigeon. This bird is known for its ability to find its way home from long distances, even when released into unfamiliar territory.
In the past, Homing pigeons were used for communication. They would carry messages from one location to another, often traveling hundreds of miles in a single flight.
Nowadays, these intelligent birds are still used by hobbyists who enjoy training them to perform various tricks or take part in races and flying competitions.
My own curiosity about Homing pigeons has led me to a study on the relationship between their sense of smell and their navigation abilities. Interestingly, using a series of tests, pigeons with impaired olfactory senses showed issues with their flight path.
Further, Homing pigeons with their right nostrils interrupted showed more distractions than those with interrupted left nostrils. This shows the significance of having a smooth respiratory function for more efficient navigation for these pigeons.
2. Nicobar Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Nicobar |
| Origin: | Southeast Asia |
| Large- | |
| Color: | A mix of grey, blue-green, copper, and purple |
| Use: | Ornamental |
| Price: | $100 – $1,200 |
The Nicobar pigeon is one of the most distinctive types of pigeons in the world, and not simply because of its striking appearance, which includes a combination of blue and bright green feathers.
As a matter of fact, Nicobar pigeons, once almost extinct, have made a comeback due to conservation efforts. However, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) still lists them as a “near-threatened” species.
Another thing you need to know about Nicobar pigeons is that they are the only living member of the Caloenas genus. They are closely related to the now-extinct Dodo bird as well.
However, going back to looks, these birds have an iridescent sheen on their wings and backs that can appear almost metallic in color.
They are also usually bulky, as they bear muscular gizzards that help them digest tough seeds and nuts.
3. Lahore Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Lahore |
| Origin: | Pakistan |
| Medium- | |
| Color: | Black, white, brown, red, blue, silver, or pied |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Ornamental and exhibition |
| Price: | $50 – $500 |
If a fancy breed is what you’re after, look no further than the Lahore pigeon. It is well-known for its beauty, and it’s been a popular choice among pigeon enthusiasts for centuries.
Lahore pigeons also don’t need an elaborate setup to thrive — all they need is food, water, and other necessities, which makes them an excellent feathered pet for any hobbyist with limited space.
Moreover, Lahore pigeons can live up to ten years or even longer if properly cared for, making them a more practical option for those who want a long-lasting companion.
In terms of appearance, they may have a predominantly white coloration; however, their head, back, and wings are often colored with a black, red, silver, brown, or blue hue.
4. Ice Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Ice |
| Origin: | Eastern Germany and Western Poland |
| Medium- | |
| Color: | White, pale gray, or ice-blue |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Ornamental and showing |
| Price: | $25 – $300 |
Among the many fancy pigeons created by selective breeding is the Ice pigeon. It has been bred to exhibit an ice-blue, almost white pigmentation, with a few pale gray markings on the wings and tail.
It should also be noted that Ice Pigeons belong to the category of German toys or color pigeons. They are one of the oldest pigeon breeds existing today, having been around since at least the 1800s.
In addition to the Ice pigeon, other German toys can be found in the list below:
- Starling Pigeons
- Monk or Priest Pigeons
- Breast Pigeons
- Moulter Pigeons
- Shield Pigeons
Fun Fact: Charles Darwin contributed significantly to the development of Ice pigeons. It was documented that he cross-bred different types of pigeons in order to widen the variety of colors they could produce.
5. African Owl Pigeon
| Breed Name: | African Owl |
| Origin: | Africa |
| Medium to large- | |
| Color: | White, black, blue, silver, dun, lavender, brown, khaki, yellow, red, and more |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Pets and exhibition |
| Price: | $150 – $600 |
For bird lovers searching for a domestic fancy pigeon breed to add to their flock, consider the African Owl pigeon. It is a fancy pigeon developed in Africa and bred for showing purposes.
In general, African Owl pigeons will sport ball-shaped heads alongside a short beak, a crested chest, also known as jabot, and a set of large eyes. These birds also come in various hues, including blue, black, red, and yellow.
Having said that, white African Owl pigeons are perhaps one of the most beautiful members of this species. It will undoubtedly add a sense of elegance to your coop.
6. Maltese Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Maltese, Malteser, and Poule Maltais |
| Origin: | Southern Germany and Austria |
| Small to medium- | |
| Color: | Black, white, red, brown, blue-hammered black, hammered brown, silver, dun, grizzles, or blue with spots |
| Flying Range: | Can only fly a short distance |
| Use: | Pets and ornamental |
| Price: | $70 – $200 |
While the name of this bird might lead you to believe that it originated in Malta, the Maltese Pigeon actually hails from Southern Germany and Austria.
Initially, it was thought this pigeon type had gone extinct, mainly due to a lack of breeding records. However, more recently, it has been discovered that it was a product of mixing French Bagdad pigeons with German toys.
However, although these birds are known for their loyalty and speed, they can also be quite stubborn at times. In fact, when it comes to mating rituals, they are known to be particularly aggressive.
That said, it is undeniable that Maltese pigeons are great additions to any household, especially for those who have children who adore winged animals.
7. Jacobin Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Jacobin |
| Origin: | India |
| Small to medium- | |
| Color: | Silver, black, blue, yellow, or white |
| Flying Range: | Can fly a medium-range distance |
| Use: | Showing |
| Price: | $50 – $200 |
Even if it may not be apparent at first, with their distinctive feathered hood and all, the Jacobin pigeon is related to the common Rock Dove. It’s just that these Asiatic pigeons have a much fluffier appearance than their peers.
Still, it’s probably because of this trait that Jacobins are so popular in the pet trade. These beautiful birds are a champion among show birds, as their heavily feathered neck and chests make them stand out from other breeds.
What’s more, Jacobin pigeons won’t end up spending most of their time on your shoulder.
Instead of being quite affectionate like other birds, they prefer to spend most of their time alone — they’re basically the individualists of the aviary world.
8. Archangel Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Archangel |
| Origin: | Dalmatia |
| Medium- | |
| Color: | Bronze or gold with white, black, or blue wings |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Showing |
| Price: | $20 – $200 |
Now, if you are into unique-looking pigeon breeds, meet the Archangel pigeon. It is known for its bronze or gold-colored feathers, accompanied by wings that can come in black, brown, white, or dark blue tints.
As with Nicobars, Archangel pigeons have a metallic sheen on their plumage. Still, they are not as flashy as Nicobars and are typically slightly larger in
When it comes to disposition, these domestic pigeons are regarded to be sweet-tempered and friendly with people. However, they can be territorial and feisty towards other birds if they feel threatened by them.
9. Damascene Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Damascene |
| Origin: | Damascus, Syria |
| Medium- | |
| Color: | Silver-gray or white |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Pets, messaging, and showing |
| Price: | $10 – $100 |
Another domestic breed that you should know about is the Damascene pigeon. Selective breeding techniques have resulted in a distinct look for this bird: it has a white body with black marks and lines on its wings and tail.
While Damascenes can be used as a racing pigeon, bird fanciers usually keep them as a pet. That said, you may also see this breed in shows or exhibitions where they are displayed for their beauty.
Note, though, that beyond their aesthetic appeal, they are also known for their high intelligence and gentle nature. In short, these pigeons generally make for excellent feathered friends.
Since Damascenes are recognized by both the National Pigeon Association (NPA) and the Royal Pigeon Racing Association (RPRA), you’ll have no trouble finding them if you’re looking for one.
10. Kererū Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Kererū |
| Origin: | New Zealand |
| Medium to large- | |
| Color: | A mix of metallic green, white, bronze, and purple |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 400 miles (640 km) |
| Use: | Ornamental and utility |
| Price: | $150 – $1,000 |
Commonly referred to as the New Zealand pigeon, the Kererū is one bird you won’t want to miss seeing in its natural habitat. They combine many colors on their feathers: iridescent green, white, bronze, and purple.
As a matter of fact, even their beak is gorgeous — it is orange-tipped, but if you look closely, you can see that it’s actually red underneath.
Upon traveling to New Zealand to visit a friend, I had the pleasure of observing his couple of Kererūs for several days. I know that their stout bodies allow them to swallow large fruits, but it was a different experience seeing them ingest karaka, miro, and taraire berries without choking.
After consuming these fruits, I also noticed that they regurgitate them back up again so that the seeds can be dispersed through the wind. This wonderful ability contributes to the rich ecological process of their environment.
11. Polish Lynx Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Polish Lynx |
| Origin: | Poland |
| Medium to large- | |
| Color: | Multi-colored or gray with a hint of blue |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Showing |
| Price: | $50 – $180 |
The Polish Lynx is one of the most popular pigeon breeds, with the first specimens seen in the 19th century. It’s a favorite among breeders and hobbyists, who appreciate its striking beauty, cleverness, and endurance.
Even so, one should keep in mind that Polish Lynx pigeons tend to be problematic birds. They’re very active and playful and love flying around outside their enclosure.
This can be dangerous, as they might fly away or fall prey to predators like cats or larger birds.
12. Rock Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Rock |
| Origin: | Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia |
| Small- | |
| Color: | Bluish-gray |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Pets, homing, and racing |
| Price: | $50 – $1,000 |
The Rock pigeon, also known as the Blue Rock dove, is a common and widespread species of gray bird in the family Columbidae. It is found in Europe, Western Asia, North Africa, and the Canary Islands.
Because Rock pigeons are also known for their hardiness, it should come as no surprise that they can live in many different habitats. So, no matter what season it is, you can anticipate these birds thriving.
Having said that, a domesticated pigeon still has a better chance of surviving than feral ones. Remember that those kept as pets can live up to 15 years, while wild ones only make it about six years on average.
13. Dragoon Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Dragoon |
| Origin: | United Kingdom |
| Medium- | |
| Color: | Mealy, cream bars, silver checks, silver-barred, red, yellow, blue-barred, dun, red, or white |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 300 miles (480 km) |
| Use: | Pets and exhibition |
| Price: | $25 – $300 |
Up next is the Dragoon pigeon, another bird that’s a result of selective breeding. This individual breed is known for its blunt beak, which gives it an appearance that’s both fierce and elegant.
To add to that, unlike most pigeon breeds, you will notice that Dragoon pigeons have wing shield feathers displaying an unusual pattern. They look almost like they’re wearing blotted armor as they fly through the air.
However, being selectively bred also means that these pigeons tend to have better temperaments than other types of birds. They are more likely to be calm and relaxed when they’re around people.
14. Modena Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Modena |
| Origin: | Italy |
| Medium- | |
| Color: | Solid-colored or pied |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 300 miles (480 km) |
| Use: | Showing |
| Price: | $40 – $400 |
The Modena pigeon is, interestingly, another subspecies of Rock pigeon. With this, however, comes a difference in appearance: the Modena is well-known for its usually brightly-colored wings.
So while you may see them exhibiting the grey head that’s common among these birds, their wings are often speckled with red, gold, or brown blotches.
Further, Modena pigeons carry their tails in an upright position rather than dragging them behind. They also have a somewhat curvier build than other varieties of rock doves.
15. Short-Faced Tumbler Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Short-Faced Tumbler |
| Origin: | United Kingdom |
| Small to medium- | |
| Color: | White, cream, or a combination |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Flying and racing |
| Price: | $10 – $100 |
With its unique appearance, the Short-Faced Tumbler pigeon is a breed that stands out from the rest. Basically, its extremely short beak and large head make it an interesting species to watch.
That said, their flying prowess is what makes them truly special. This breed can perform incredible acrobatic flights that can leave you mesmerized. Thus, it’s hard not to notice these birds’ exceptional flying skills.
Still, for those who don’t like to take part in pigeon racing, there’s no need to worry — Short-Faced Tumblers are also great pets. Their gentle nature makes it easy for anyone to handle, even if you’re new at owning birds.
Appearance-wise, Short-Faced Tumblers will be clean-legged. Their body feathers are mostly white in color with cream accents on their wings and chest.
16. Birmingham Roller Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Birmingham Roller, Turkish Oriental Roller, and Flying Oriental Roller |
| Origin: | Birmingham, United Kingdom |
| Medium to large- | |
| Color: | Bluish-black, ash red, black, and brown |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 600 miles (965 km) |
| Use: | Racing, showing, and exhibition |
| Price: | $25 – $150 |
The Birmingham Roller pigeon is a type of pigeon that excels at flying and racing. The reason for this is that they perform rapid backward somersaults, which makes them more aerodynamic.
Additionally, Birmingham Rollers can fly faster than other pigeons in their class just by spinning around in circles. This also helps them stay on course when flying in windy conditions or racing against other feathered animals.
If you are more of a visual person, watch this video of Birmingham Roller Pigeons in action:
17. Helmet Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Helmet, Helmet Crested, and German Helmet |
| Origin: | Germany |
| Medium- | |
| Color: | White with black, brown, blue, or grey-colored tail and head |
| Flying Range: | Can fly a medium-range distance |
| Use: | Pets and ornamental |
| Price: | $90 – $300 |
As its name implies, the Helmet pigeon has a helmet-shaped gray-colored patch on its head. Their neck will also be slightly fluffy as if they are wearing a feathery hoodie.
However, given that Helmet pigeons have average flying skills, they are not the best fliers in their species. Nonetheless, they do make up for this with their ornamental beauty.
Overall, Helmet pigeons are great pets, even for new bird owners. They are really easy to care for and are quite tame as well.
18. Fantail Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Fantail |
| Origin: | India and Spain |
| Small to medium- | |
| Color: | Black, blue, dun, red, white, silver, or yellow |
| Flying Range: | Can fly a medium-range distance |
| Use: | Pets and showing |
| Price: | $150 – $400 |
Generally speaking, the Fantail pigeon is characterized by its silky feather textures, fan-shaped tail appearance, and a wide variety of colors. Further, they have a relatively slender build and possess a small head.
As such, it only makes sense that this breed has been domesticated for centuries in order to be used as a fancy show bird.
It is also worth noting that Fantail Pigeons are the oldest breed, according to some sources. This is even supported by the fact that there are wide varieties of the same name, including the following:
- Silky Fantail
- Thai Fantail
- English Fantail
- Indian Fantail
- American Fantail
- Garden Fantail
Being a beautiful breed, Fantail pigeons have their charms. While they’re not fast enough to perform tricks like other breeds, they make up for that lack of agility with elegance and style.
19. Antwerp Smerle Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Antwerp Smerle |
| Origin: | Western Europe |
| Small to medium- | |
| Color: | Black, dun, red, yellow, or pied |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Racing |
| Price: | Unknown |
The Antwerp Smerle pigeon is another member of pigeon breeds produced by selective breeding. It originated in Western Europe and was developed for swiftness, agility, and endurance.
As a matter of fact, Antwerp Smerles were used in the breeding process of other prevalent racing pigeons, such as the common homing Pigeon.
20. Pied Imperial Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Pied Imperial |
| Origin: | Southern Asia, Australia, and New Guinea |
| Medium to large- | |
| Color: | Pale cream with iridescent green wings and tail feathers |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Utility and ornamental |
| Price: | $500 – $2,000 |
If you are a fan of exotic birds from around the world, the Pied Imperial pigeon is one that should be added to your list of favorites. It is a utility bird known for its versatility and ability to adapt to almost any territory.
Typically, Pied Imperials help in seed dispersal by eating fruit and later excreting the seeds in their droppings. The seeds are then deposited in various parts of the forest, allowing them to grow into new plants.
In addition to this two-colored form, the Imperial pigeon is made up of several other subspecies, including:
- Spotted Imperial
- Green Imperial
- Mountain Imperial
However, note that all these varieties differ only slightly in coloration and behavior from each other. Some of them may even coexist within the same habitat without any problems.
21. Brunner Pouter Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Brunner Pouter, Pigmy Pouter, and Swing Pouter |
| Origin: | Czech Republic |
| Small- | |
| Color: | Blue, black, black check, blue check, dun, white, red, yellow, or silver |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 300 miles (480 km) |
| Use: | Pets and showing |
| Price: | $150 – $1,000 |
If you compare the Brunner Pouter pigeon with its ancestors, you might say that it is the most striking domestic pigeon in the coop — probably because of its globe-shaped throat.
On top of that, these birds are so tiny that they are one of the smallest breeds of pigeons. However, don’t let their
Not only do they have a unique appearance, but they also have some distinctive personality traits. For one, they love to show off. They will perform all kinds of tricks for you, particularly if they are well-trained.
22. Frill Back Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Frill Back |
| Origin: | Asia |
| Medium- | |
| Color: | Beige, gray, red, white, recessive red, yellow, bi-colored, or tri-colored |
| Flying Range: | Can fly a medium-range distance |
| Use: | Pets, showing, and ornamental |
| Price: | $25 – $275 |
The Frill Back pigeon, sometimes spelled as Frillback, is a breed of fancy pigeon that originated in Asia. They can be easily identified by the curly feathers on their entire wing shield.
Hence, when you see a pigeon with such a distinctive physical feature, you should know they are indeed Frill Backs. No other type of Pigeon has this attribute aside from them.
Further, it is worth mentioning that Frillback pigeons often boast unique colorways. They have been known to come in bright shades such as red and yellow; however, they also appear in more muted tones like beige and gray.
Some of these birds even exhibit patterns and markings that are not commonly seen on other pigeon breeds’ plumage.
23. Saxon Shield Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Saxon Shield |
| Origin: | Germany |
| Medium to large- | |
| Color: | Black, blue, red, or yellow with bars and lace |
| Flying Range: | Can fly a medium-range distance |
| Use: | Pets, ornamental, and showing |
Given its name, the Saxon Shield pigeon is a relatively easy bird to spot. They literally carry wings that are barred or laced, resembling a shield.
Moreover, if that isn’t enough to tell them apart from other pigeon breeds, then their heavily feathered feet and legs should be. Note that those muff feathers are their most distinctive trait.
Still, more than their looks, Saxon Shields are notable for their cleverness and delicate demeanor. They are also a creature of habit and loves to be taken care of by humans, particularly those who will provide them with plenty of attention.
24. English Trumpeter Pigeon
| Breed Name: | English Trumpeter |
| Origin: | United Kingdom |
| Small to medium- | |
| Color: | White, red, yellow, black, or blue-checkered/barred |
| Flying Range: | Can only fly a short distance |
| Use: | Pets, showing, and ornamental |
| Price: | $100 – $500 |
Native to the United Kingdom, the English Trumpeter is a small to medium pigeon renowned for its cape-shaped crest, muffled legs, and long tail feathers.
However, these birds’ striking physical features conceal the fact that they are often introverted and prefer to remain on their own in quiet solitude.
For this reason, it may be difficult for other species to live harmoniously with English Trumpeters.
25. Cumulet Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Cumulet, Haut-volant Cumulet, Altovolante Cumulet, Cumulet Hochfliger |
| Origin: | England, France, and Belgium |
| Small to medium- | |
| Color: | White |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Racing |
If you’re searching for a pigeon that’s easy to recognize, the Cumulet is your best bet. These types of birds are distinguished by their overall white pigmentation, with the only exception being their orange-colored beak and feet.
When in flight, Cumulets are also known for their distinct wing shape — the tips of their wings are rounded and drooped down.
To add to that, you will notice that when they are perched on a branch, their tail feathers are very long.
26. Band-tailed Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Band-tailed Pigeon |
| Origin: | North America |
| Medium- | |
| Color: | A mix of bluish-gray, green, and purple |
| Use: | Utility |
It can be hard to keep track of what’s going on with the world of pigeons, but one thing is for sure: the Band-tailed pigeon has experienced quite a rise and fall in its population.
From nearly going extinct to making a comeback and then being endangered again, these birds have encountered many ups and downs in their history.
That said, Band-tailed pigeons remain among the most beautiful and interesting birds found today.
With their plumage maintaining a mixture of bluish-grays, greens, and purples, it’s easy to see why people are so enamored by these winged creatures.
27. Victoria Crowned Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Victoria Crowned Pigeon |
| Origin: | New Guinea |
| Large- | |
| Color: | Deep bluish-gray with red-colored chest |
| Use: | Utility and ornamental |
| Price: | $2,000 – $2,500 |
The Victoria Crowned pigeon, also known as the Goura Victoria, is a breed of utility pigeon originating from New Guinea. It is labeled as the largest breed in the Columbidae family.
However, to be specific, it is almost as if these creatures were related to turkeys, as they can grow up to 28 inches in length and weigh up to four and one-half pounds.
Along with such impressive
28. Spinifex Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Spinifex, Plumed-pigeon, and Gannaway Pigeon |
| Origin: | Australia |
| Small- | |
| Color: | Rufous-brown with black bars |
| Flying Range: | Can only fly a short distance |
| Use: | Utility |
| Price: | $1,000 – $2,000 |
For those who want to meet a compact pigeon, make way for the Spinifex. These birds are known for their distinctive rufous-brown coloration and their preference for hopping over flying.
Surprisingly, these species of pigeons prefer to live in the arid desert regions of Australia. This may seem odd because most other types of pigeons like to live in cities or towns with large populations.
However, it is worth noting that Gannaway pigeons feed on seeds from spinifex grasses, which grow in deserts throughout Australia.
29. Barb Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Barb, Barbary Pigeon, and English Barb |
| Origin: | United Kingdom, Middle East, and North Africa |
| Medium- | |
| Color: | Usually black, red, or white |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Racing, messaging, and showing |
The Barb pigeon, famous for its knobby, red circles of bare flesh on its eye rings and beak, is an all-purpose breed. In fact, it has been used for showing, racing, messaging, and utility purposes for over a millennium.
Even so, the reality that this breed has been around for so long means there are now several sub-variations of it. Below is a list of the different Barb pigeons:
- Spanish Barb
- Polish Barb
- Crested Barb
- English Barb
Frankly, many different countries have bred their own versions of these birds — Poland and Spain included. This just goes to show that Barb Pigeons are indeed the jack-of-all-trades of the pigeon world.
30. Saxon Monk Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Saxon Monk |
| Origin: | Germany |
| Medium- | |
| Color: | Blue, yellow, white, black, or red with bars or spangles |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 300 miles (480 km) |
| Use: | Exhibition |
The Saxon Monk, a breed of pigeon known for its calm demeanor and ability to adapt quickly, is characterized by its resemblance to monks wearing their monastic robes.
However, to be specific, white-colored heads, barred or laced wing shields, and body feathers that are dark on top and become lighter on the bottom are all features of Saxon Monks.
When it comes to their flying skills, though, these birds aren’t comparable with other pigeons in terms of speed. That being said, they can still fly fast enough to be shown in exhibitions.
31. Syrian Dewlap Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Syrian Dewlap and Abu Abse Wammentaube |
| Origin: | Syria |
| Medium- | |
| Color: | A mix of black, white, and green |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Showing |
| Price: | $100 – $300 |
Popularly known as the Abu Abse Wammentaube, the Syrian Dewlap pigeon is distinctive because of its plumage, which is only a combination of black, white, and green.
In addition, they have a tall stature, accompanied by a slim profile. They will also have emerald-colored eyes surrounded by deep red rings.
Though Syrian Dewlaps are an ancient species prized for their excellent flying skills, they are now mainly bred for show purposes.
32. King Pigeon
| Breed Name: | King |
| Origin: | United States |
| Large- | |
| Color: | Blue, silver, black, white, or red |
| Flying Range: | Can fly a medium-range distance |
| Use: | Pets, utility, and showing |
| Price: | $50 – $100 |
If you want to see a fluffier version of the Cumulet, the King pigeon is right up your alley. However, keep in mind that Cumulets only come in whites, whereas King pigeons can be found in many tints.
It is worth noting, though, that more than color, these birds’ distinguishing trait is their
Yet the most surprising thing about King pigeons is their versatility: they can be used as racing and show birds, in addition to meat production. Some even work as therapy animals for differently-abled persons.
33. American Giant Runt Pigeon
| Breed Name: | American Giant Runt |
| Origin: | Spain and France |
| Large- | |
| Color: | Blue, silver, yellow, dun, black, red, grizzle, ash red, or white |
| Flying Range: | Can only fly a short distance |
| Use: | Utility and showing |
| Price: | $20 – $400 |
Up next is another large-
With this, you can expect American Giant Runts aren’t that great at flying. Although they can fly a few feet, they’re better at walking around and exploring their surroundings than soaring through the sky.
Nevertheless, their utilitarian value far outweighs any disadvantages they may have when it comes to flying.
In addition, American Giant Runt owners are known for entering their pets in competitions where pigeons are judged on appearance rather than performance.
34. Old Dutch Capuchine Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Old Dutch Capuchine |
| Origin: | Middle East, Greece, and India |
| Small to medium- | |
| Color: | Black, yellow, red, blue with black bars, silver with dark dun bars, mealies with red bars, white, or cream with yellow bars |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 300 miles (480 km) |
| Use: | Ornamental and exhibition |
| Price: | $25 – $225 |
Looking as though it is ready for the runway, the Old Dutch Capuchine pigeon is a breed that has long been prized for its distinctive appearance. They sport a heavy and densely feathered crest and neck.
That said, this dazzling feature does not come without faults. As these birds mature, their feathers will become brittle, especially when exposed to environmental stressors, so owners must be careful to maintain their condition.
Fortunately, Old Dutch Capuchine pigeons are robust birds that can withstand certain hardships.
All in all, as long as you keep an eye on your pet birds and make sure they are comfortable in their habitat, they should have no trouble flourishing.
35. Silvery Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Silvery Pigeon |
| Origin: | Western Indonesia and Malaysia |
| Medium- | |
| Color: | White or silvery-gray with bluish-gray-tipped wings and tail |
| Use: | Utility |
If you are a bird aficionado, the Silvery Pigeon is a type of winged creature that you’ll want to know about.
For starters, these exotic birds boast light-colored body feathers with dark-tipped wing shields and tails. They also have black bills and legs, making them easy to recognize.
However, it should be noted that this breed currently faces several serious problems.
For one, Silvery Pigeons were once a common sight in Western Indonesia and Malaysia, but their numbers have dwindled due to deforestation, climate change, and illegal hunting.
Hence, the IUCN has now listed them as “Critically Endangered.”
36. Pheasant Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Pheasant |
| Origin: | Fergusson Island, Papua New Guinea |
| Medium to large- | |
| Color: | A combination of black, brownish-red, yellow, and shiny blue |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Utility and ornamental |
Elegant-looking, strong-legged, and chicken-
One should note, though, that not much information is available on how well Pheasants do in captivity and in the wild.
As a matter of fact, only a few studies have been done on these birds’ behavior and compatibility with humans.
Even so, many can still attest to their beauty and gracefulness. For the time being, however, you can only hope that more research will be conducted in the future about these majestic creatures.
37. Nun Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Nun and Dutch Shell Pigeon |
| Origin: | Europe |
| Small- | |
| Color: | White with a large black, yellow, or brown marking on the face |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 300 miles (480 km) |
| Use: | Flying and showing |
| Price: | $100 – $300 |
Upon reading its name, you might think that the Nun is a bird that belongs to a religious order. However, note that it is actually a type of Pigeon that has been around since the 1700s. They are also known as Dutch Shell pigeons.
Nuns are known for their hood-shaped face markings, which can range from yellow to chocolate brown. They have a blunt beak and short legs but otherwise resemble other domestic pigeons in appearance.
Additionally, these birds, which are considered good flyers, should have no trouble reaching high altitudes. Thus, showing and flying competitions are also likely to be within their range of expertise.
38. Old Fashioned Oriental Frill Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Old Fashioned Oriental Frill and Classic Oriental Frill |
| Origin: | Turkey |
| Small to medium- | |
| Color: | Ash red, blue, grey, blondinette, satinette, brown, recessive red, brown, or white |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 300 miles (480 km) |
| Use: | Pets, showing, and ornamental |
| Price: | $30 – $100 |
The Old Fashioned Oriental Frill, commonly known as the Classic Oriental Frill, is an exhibition pigeon that was originally bred in the 1800s. They are a Turkey-native breed that was produced for the Ottoman Sultans.
However, after their debut at an American exhibition in 1879, they quickly gained popularity. It paved the way for their rise as one of the most favored breeds of pigeons today.
39. Pink Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Pink Pigeon |
| Origin: | Mauritius |
| Medium- | |
| Color: | Pale pinkish-grey |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Utility |
Classified as rarest among all other pigeon breeds, the Pink pigeon is endemic to the forests of Mauritius. They have a pinkish body with a white head and bluish-gray wings.
That being said, beware: this utility breed is nearing extinction, so it’s best if you just admire them from afar. The IUCN lists them as “Critically Endangered” because of habitat loss and deforestation.
Sadly, many avian experts fear these birds may soon be gone forever unless collective action is taken to save them.
40. Egyptian Swift Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Egyptian Swift, Flying Egyptian Swift, and Show Egyptian Swift |
| Origin: | Egypt |
| Medium to large- | |
| Color: | Absy, Ahmar Gohzar, Anbary Asmar, Bolk, Egyptian Absy, Egyptian Halaby, Halaby, Karakandy, Kojook, Mesawed, Otati, or Safi |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Showing and flying |
| Price: | $15 – $1,000 |
Standing at a staggering 14 inches tall, the Egyptian Swift pigeon is one of the fastest and most agile birds you’ll ever meet. They can also fly up to 500 miles in a single trip.
However, aside from their exceptional speed, they are also known for their intelligence. In short, they don’t just fly — they think. This makes them an excellent contender for exhibitions and flying contests.
Being hardy is another point in favor of these birds. In general, they can live between 10 and 15 years, albeit under proper care and conditions.
Another thing to note about Egyptian Swift pigeons is that their price can vary depending on where they are purchased from. So ready your pockets, as they can be bought for as little as $15 or as much as $1,000.
41. Indian Gola Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Indian Gola |
| Origin: | India |
| Small to medium- | |
| Color: | Predominantly white with tiger or grizzle patterns |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Pets and flying |
The Indian Gola should be one of the first breeds you learn about if you are new to the world of pigeons. Not because it’s one of the oldest but because it’s so iconic in terms of its looks and behavior.
Typically, Indian Golas carry a small profile. However, their speckled faces, necks, and chests stand out on their otherwise white-pigmented bodies.
They also maintain a sheen that makes them look glossy and elegant even when they’re just standing around looking cool.
On the other hand, these birds’ demeanor is generally calm and relaxed. They are known for their quiet nature and their ability to be easily handled by humans.
42. Saxon Fairy Swallow Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Saxon Fairy Swallow |
| Origin: | Germany |
| Small to medium- | |
| Color: | Black, blue, red, yellow, silver, white-barred, or black-barred |
| Flying Range: | Can fly a medium-range distance |
| Use: | Ornamental and showing |
Up next is the Saxon Fairy Swallow pigeon. This breed originated in Germany and was bred for its beautiful appearance — it has a fluffy crest, muffled legs, and downy feathers in most parts of its body.
For such reasons, it should come as no shock that these pigeons are primarily used for ornamental purposes. They’re also very prevalent among collectors of rare birds; hence, you can anticipate them to be quite pricey.
That said, be warned, though, sassiness and aggression are said to be some of the negative traits of this breed. So, if you decide to keep one as a pet, you might have to be prepared to deal with their sharp attitude.
43. Carneau Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Carneau |
| Origin: | Northern France and Southern Belgium |
| Large- | |
| Color: | Red or white |
| Flying Range: | Can only fly a short distance |
| Use: | Pets, utility, and showing |
Although the Carneau pigeon is not as fast as other pigeons, it is very strong and a good forager. They even have the ability to fly short distances in spite of their heavy weight.
However, many bird owners raise Carneau pigeons for their squabs. They are also known to produce large amounts of milk, making them excellent sources of food for humans and other animals.
Yet birds of this type, when not used for their utilitarian value, can make excellent pets. Some are even entered in showing contests due to their attractive features and the fact that they are easy to train.
44. Lucerne Gold Collar Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Lucerne Gold Collar, Lucernois à Col Doré, Luzerner Goldkragen, Lucernese a Collo Dorato |
| Origin: | Lucerne, Switzerland |
| Small to medium- | |
| Color: | A mix of gold, gray, white, and mealy |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 300 miles (480 km) |
| Use: | Flying, showing, and ornamental |
By just reading its name, you can already tell that the Lucerne Gold Collar pigeon’s primary trait is its golden-colored neck. Meanwhile, their body feathers are white or grayish-white in hue.
Moreover, the head shape of these pigeons is quite different from other varieties. It is pointed at the crown with a protruding forehead and an extremely blunt beak.
Despite these unusual characteristics, though, Lucerne Gold Collar pigeons are very competitive at flying and showing competitions.
45. Bohemian Fairy Swallow Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Bohemian Fairy Swallow and Tiger Swallow |
| Origin: | Thuringia, Bohemia, and Silesia |
| Small to medium- | |
| Color: | Mainly buff-grey with yellow, white, or red wings |
| Flying Range: | Can fly a medium-range distance |
| Use: | Showing |
| Price: | $60 – $200 |
For anyone looking for a bird that’s as fun as its name suggests, the Bohemian Fairy Swallow pigeon may be it. These Thuringia, Silesia, and Bohemia natives are a cross of Dresden Trumpeters and barless Swallows.
In most cases, Bohemian Fairy Swallows will come in a buff-grey coloration with black-checkered wing feathers. Still, it is not uncommon for them to appear in other shades as well, including brown and red.
In terms of flight ability, this pigeon breed is not what you’d expect from such an exotic-sounding name: they’re quite slow. Nonetheless, their attractive appearance makes up for their shortcoming.
46. English Magpie Pigeon
| Breed Name: | English Magpie and Queen of the Pigeons |
| Origin: | United Kingdom |
| Medium to large- | |
| Color: | White with black or brown markings |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 300 miles (480 km) |
| Use: | Flying and showing |
| Price: | $100 – $250 |
The English Magpie pigeon, dubbed Queen of the Pigeons, means that it is the most famous and widely bred pigeon variety worldwide. They usually come in a large frame, alongside an elongated neck and long legs.
In the past, early English Magpie pigeons were small-bodied birds that were used for racing purposes. However, modern-day varieties are much larger than their predecessors, which limits their ability to fly swiftly.
Even so, flying competitions are still held for these pigeons because of their high endurance level and intelligence.
47. French Mondain Pigeon
| Breed Name: | French Mondain |
| Origin: | France |
| Large- | |
| Color: | Self-colored |
| Flying Range: | Can only fly a short distance |
| Use: | Pets, utility, and showing |
| Price: | $150 – $300 |
The French Mondain Pigeon is among the heaviest pigeons in the world. Yet given their broad build and stocky shape, they are probably one of the boxiest-looking as well.
Having said that, it’s not all about looks for French Mondains — it’s about performance. While their flying skills aren’t something to write home about, their swiftness and stamina are second to none.
French Mondains also have an affinity for showmanship, which is why they’re often used as exhibition birds rather than racing pigeons.
48. Scandaroon Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Scandaroon and Nuremberg Bagdad |
| Origin: | Germany |
| Large- | |
| Color: | White with black, blue, red, or yellow splotches |
| Flying Range: | Can fly a medium-range distance |
| Use: | Ornamental and showing |
| Price: | $100 – $375 |
Often mistaken for the English Magpie breed, the Nuremberg Bagdad or Scandaroon pigeon is a bird type that was popularized during Alexander the Great’s reign.
However, what sets Scandaroon pigeons apart from their English Magpie counterparts is their unique patterning.
Their black, blue, red, or yellow splotches are arranged in such a way that they form intricate marks across their bodies, faces, tails, and wings. In addition to this, their beaks are more pronounced and curved than most pigeons.
49. Strasser Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Strasser |
| Origin: | Austria |
| Medium to large- | |
| Color: | Back lace, blue, blue-barred, lark, black-barred, white-barred, red, yellow, or blue-checkered |
| Flying Range: | Can fly a medium-range distance |
| Use: | Utility and showing |
| Price: | $100 – $300 |
The Strasser pigeon is native to Austria and is one innocent-looking bird. Don’t let their appearance trick you, though, as this breed is super intelligent.
From the moment they hatch, these baby pigeons are likely thinking about how to escape from their nest.
However, given that Strassers are a major source of squabs, it is often used for breeding purposes.
However, if you are more into exhibitions, you’ll find that this breed is also incredibly favored at shows.
50. Tippler Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Tippler |
| Origin: | United Kingdom |
| Medium- | |
| Color: | Red, black, blue, brown, or silver with white smudges |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Flying, showing, and exhibition |
| Price: | $50 – $400 |
While the Tippler pigeon may not be particularly notable for its physical appearance, it does have one of the most interesting behaviors of any pigeon: it can drink water without stopping.
Additionally, since Tippler pigeons are a cross between Cumulets and Homing pigeons, many subsets have been developed over time. These include the following:
- Lovatt Tippler
- Sheffield Tippler
- Gordon Hughes Tippler
- Jack Boden Tippler
- Irish Blue Tippler
- Macclesfield Tippler
- Manchester Tippler
In a nutshell, do note that all these Tippler types can reach very high altitudes, which makes them ideal for flying competitions.
51. Chinese Owl Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Chinese Owl Pigeon and Whiskered Owl Pigeon |
| Origin: | Germany |
| Small- | |
| Color: | Black, blue, bluish-gray, barred, brown, ice, white, or pied |
| Flying Range: | Can fly a medium-range distance |
| Use: | Pets, showing, and ornamental |
| Price: | $20 – $250 |
Originating from China, the Whiskered Owl Pigeon, also called the Chinese Owl Pigeon, is used for showing purposes. They are well-known for their distinctive muff feathers covering their wings, almost looking like Dracula’s cloak.
At first glance, though, especially if you have no experience with pigeons, you may think they are just your average fluffy chicken.
However, if you take a closer look, you will see they have a tinier head and a pointier beak than chickens.
Temperament-wise, owners of Whiskered Owl pigeons have reported that their male birds are often aggressive and dominant; meanwhile, their females tend to be more reserved and docile.
52. Coburg Lark Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Coburg Lark, Koburger Lark, and Gold Leads Lark |
| Origin: | Germany |
| Medium to large- | |
| Color: | White with silver neck and orange chest |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 300 miles (480 km) |
| Use: | Pets and utility |
If you are a lover of pigeons and enjoy the companionship that comes with owning one, the Coburg Lark pigeon is the bird for you. They have an attractive appearance, a unique personality, and an easy-to-handle nature.
Remember that the Coburg Lark isn’t just any pigeon, though. These are birds with a history that dates back to the 18th century. They are believed to be one of the oldest breeds of pigeons in existence today.
53. Serbian Highflyer Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Serbian Highflyer |
| Origin: | Serbia |
| Small to medium- | |
| Color: | Black, grey, blue, brown, or white |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Pets and racing |
| Price: | $40 – $80 |
Popularized by its endurance in flying, the Serbian Highflyer pigeon is a fierce competitor in bird shows and exhibitions. Their ability to fly between distant places without stopping or tiring out is impressive.
In addition, these pigeons have a small to medium-
54. Exhibition Blue Bar Homer Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Exhibition Blue Bar Homer |
| Origin: | United Kingdom |
| Medium- | |
| Color: | Bluish-silver |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Racing, messaging, and showing |
| Price: | $75 – $350 |
The Exhibition Blue Bar Homer is a sub-variety of the mail, homing, or messenger pigeon. It was bred for showing in the early 1900s and has since become a favorite by pigeon fanciers across the globe.
The name of these birds comes from the fact that they have blue bars on their wing feathers, which are used to identify them as exhibition pigeons.
Further, Exhibition Blue Bar Homers, like other homing pigeons, are capable of traveling long distances. They can fly up to 500 miles, which is good news if you’re planning on sending them on a mission.
55. Pink-necked Green Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Pink-necked Green Pigeon |
| Origin: | Southeast Asia |
| Small to medium- | |
| Color: | Mainly green plumage with blue heads, orange chests, and powder-pink necks |
| Use: | Utility |
| Price: | $100 – $800 |
Usually referred to as the Rainbow pigeon, the Pink-necked Green pigeon is a typical sight throughout much of Southeast Asia. They are birds displaying a mix of many colors on their feathers, such as green, blue, orange, yellow, and pink.
Apart from being a colorful sight, these pigeons are known for their calm and friendly behavior. This means that they are not prone to attacking humans or other animals.
Fortunately, Pink-necked Green pigeons are tagged “Least Concern” by the IUCN. As such, many people can still enjoy watching these distinctive birds in their natural habitat.
56. Bronzewing Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Bronzewing |
| Origin: | Australia |
| Medium- | |
| Color: | Bronze or purplish-black with multi-colored wings |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Utility |
| Price: | $30 – $100 |
For fans of multi-colored pigeon breeds, make way for the Bronzewing pigeon. These birds display a dazzling array of colors and patterns in their feathers, including hues of white, bronze, blue, green, yellow, pink, and red.
What’s more, Bronzewing pigeons are known for their ability to fly at high speeds while making sharp turns. Some say they’re even faster than the average racing Pigeon.
Still, being a utility breed means that these birds are more suited for helping around the forest than racing around it.
57. Lebanese Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Lebanese |
| Origin: | Syria and Lebanon |
| Medium- | |
| Color: | Red, yellow, blue, black, or light blue |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 500 miles (800 km) |
| Use: | Utility |
Given that Lebanese pigeons are related to Dewlaps, it is no surprise that they share many of the same features. However, Lebanese pigeons are a little smaller than their cousins and have lighter builds.
As far as personality goes, they are known for being very friendly winged creatures that enjoy human interaction.
58. Voorburg Shield Cropper Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Voorburg Shield Cropper |
| Origin: | The Netherlands |
| Medium- | |
| Color: | White with cream, red, gold, yellow, green, or blue-colored wings |
| Use: | Showing |
| Price: | $200 – $400 |
Native to the Netherlands, the Voorburg Shield Cropper pigeon is another bird that looks like it just swallowed a miniature globe. It is a domestic fancy pigeon created in 1935.
In addition, these types of pigeons are known for their short beaks resting on their globe-shaped throats. They also have wings with shield-like markings coming in different colors, such as red, gold, green, cream, and blue.
Interestingly, during mating season, these pigeons often spread their wings and flutter them up and down to attract mates. They will also hop around while they do so, which makes this species very lovely to look at.
59. Red-Billed Pigeon
| Breed Name: | Red-Billed |
| Origin: | Mexico and Central America |
| Medium- | |
| Color: | Maroon with grayish-blue tail and wings |
| Flying Range: | Range up to 300 miles (480 km) |
| Use: | Utility |
Finally, meet the Red-billed Pigeon. It is a pigeon type that’s commonly seen in Mexico and Central America.
Red-billed pigeons, in general, are easy to identify because of their red-pigmented bills, feet, and eye rings. Their body feathers are maroon, whereas their wings have a grayish-blue appearance.
However, bird enthusiasts should note that these pigeons have been dropping in numbers. Reasons include habitat loss due to urbanization and deforestation; illegal pet trade and poaching are additional factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Rarest Type of Pigeon?
According to some bird specialists, the Pink pigeon is the rarest type of pigeon. These medium-
Today, conservation efforts have helped the species rebound in numbers. However, Pink pigeons are still endangered, which supports the claim that they are indeed the rarest among various breeds of pigeons.
How Do I Identify a Pigeon?
Since pigeons and doves belong to the same family, the Columbidae, it’s easy to mistake one for the other. The easiest way to identify a pigeon is by observing its
In most cases, you will notice that doves tend to be smaller than pigeons and often have a more delicate build.
Another way to distinguish between these two birds is by looking at their tails. Pigeons’ tails are straighter and more uniform in length, whereas doves’ tails are curved and have a flared appearance when in flight.
What Is the Rainbow Pigeon Called?
If you are referring to the pigeon with the following traits: predominantly green feathers, a pink neck, a blue head, and an orange-colored chest, it is called the Pink-necked Green pigeon or Treron Vernans.
These multi-colored birds can be found in Southeast Asia — specifically in the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Vietnam — and are also known as the Rainbow dove or Rainbow pigeon.
What Is the Largest Pigeon Breed?
Surprisingly, the Victoria Crowned pigeon, a bird that is known for its striking appearance, is the largest of all pigeon breeds. It can reach a height of approximately 28 inches tall, alongside a wingspan of up to 13.1 inches.
Which types of pigeons capture your interest the most? Drop your thoughts, ideas, and questions about the 59 different types of pigeons in the comments!
4 comments
I saw a brown pigeon on Myrtle Beach hanging around with the other “ordinary” pigeons. I have never seen a bird like it. Is it just a bird with a genetic mutation? I would like to send you a picture.
That’s a really interesting sighting! It’s not uncommon for pigeons to have varied color patterns, and a brown pigeon among the usual grey ones can indeed stand out. It could be a genetic variation or even a different pigeon species.
I’d love to see the picture you have! Could you send it to contact@birdhelpful.com? I can take a closer look and perhaps help figure out more about this unique pigeon. Thanks for sharing your experience!
I am very interested in pigeon number 39, the Pink Pigeon. If there is a way for me to obtain it, please let me know. Thank you in advance for your response. Best regards.
Thanks for your comment and interest in the Pink Pigeon! The Pink Pigeon is indeed a stunning and unique bird. However, obtaining a Pink Pigeon for personal ownership isn’t possible.
These birds are a vulnerable species, native to Mauritius, and are under strict protection due to conservation efforts. Because of their special status, they aren’t available for private ownership.