Pigeons and doves (Columbidae)
Band-tailed Pigeon
Patagioenas fasciata. Acorns, berries and grain, often in flocks.
Pigeons and doves (Columbidae)Band-tailed PigeonPatagioenas fasciata
- Scientific name
- Patagioenas fasciata
- Length
- 13–15.7 in
- Weight
- 7.9–12 oz
- Nest
- Flimsy twig platform on a tree branch
- Entrance hole
- Does not use nest boxes
- Clutch
- 1–2 eggs
- Incubation
- 18–20 days
- Broods
- 1–2 per season
Identification
- Large grey-purple pigeon
- White crescent on the nape and yellow bill
- Pale grey tail band
Voice
Low, owl-like cooing.
Diet and feeding
Acorns, berries and grain, often in flocks.
What do band-tailed pigeons eat? · Best feeder for band-tailed pigeons
Band-tailed Pigeons by state and province
| Region | Status | Nesting |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona | Year-round resident | March–August |
| California | Year-round resident | March–August |
| Colorado | Year-round resident | April–August |
| Idaho | Year-round resident | April–August |
| Montana | Year-round resident | May–August |
| Nevada | Year-round resident | April–August |
| New Mexico | Year-round resident | April–August |
| Oregon | Year-round resident | April–August |
| Texas | Year-round resident | March–August |
| Utah | Year-round resident | April–August |
| Washington | Year-round resident | April–August |
| Wyoming | Year-round resident | May–August |
Frequently asked
What do band-tailed pigeons eat?
Acorns, berries and grain, often in flocks. At feeders: cracked corn, black-oil sunflower (on platforms).
How big is a Band-tailed Pigeon?
13–15.7 in long and 7.9–12 oz.
Do band-tailed pigeons use birdhouses?
No. Flimsy twig platform on a tree branch.
Sources
- Band-tailed Pigeon — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Band-tailed Pigeon life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Band-tailed Pigeon — Audubon Guide to North American Birds
Timing reflects typical patterns for the region as a whole; local dates vary with elevation and year. Check the linked eBird bar charts for your county.