Woodpigeons in Finland
When the Woodpigeon (Columba palumbus) is present in Finland, when it nests, and which native Finland plants supply the food it depends on.
- Status in Finland
- Summer visitor
- Nesting season
- May–September
- Size
- 41 cm, 480 g
- Nest box
- Does not use enclosed boxes
When to expect woodpigeons in Finland
The Woodpigeon arrives in Finland in spring to breed and leaves again in autumn. Brief, bright summers; nesting is compressed into May–July.
Boreal continental, forested and lake-strewn.
Nesting in Finland
In Finland the Woodpigeon usually nests May–September. Nest site: flimsy twig platform. Clutches are 2 eggs, incubated for 17 days; chicks fledge after 33–34 days, and pairs raise 2–3 per year.
- The Woodpigeon does not use enclosed nest boxes — dense native shrubs and climbers give it nest sites.
- Avoid cutting hedges during the nesting season (roughly March to August) — in the UK, disturbing an active nest is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
Native Finland plants for woodpigeons
Of the native plants we track for Finland, these 8 provide food the Woodpigeon uses:
Haws feed thrushes all winter; spring blossom supports hundreds of insect species.
Orange-red berries are a magnet for Blackbirds, thrushes and Waxwings from August.
Thorny cover that protects nests; early blossom for insects.
Hips persist into winter for thrushes and finches.
Translucent red berries in autumn.
Blackberries and impenetrable nesting cover.
Catkin seed for Siskins and Redpolls; many caterpillars for tit broods.
Cones hold seed that Siskins and Goldfinches feed on all winter.
Feeding in the garden
Seeds, buds, berries and crops.
- Best foods: Seed mix.
- Feeders: Ground tray, Open table.
- Guard ground trays with a cage if pigeons crowd smaller birds out.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked
Are woodpigeons in Finland all year?
No. The Woodpigeon is a summer visitor to Finland, arriving to breed and leaving in autumn.
When do woodpigeons nest in Finland?
Typically May–September. Clutches are 2 eggs, incubated for 17 days, with 2–3 per year.
Which native plants help woodpigeons in Finland?
Hawthorn, Rowan, Blackthorn, Dog rose, Guelder rose, Bramble, Silver birch, Alder are native to Finland and provide food or cover the Woodpigeon uses.
Woodpigeons in other countries
Other garden birds in Finland
Sources
- Woodpigeon — RSPB bird guide
- Woodpigeon — BTO BirdFacts
- Finnish Bird Atlas — Finnish Museum of Natural History
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.