On March 13, I happened to be out in our front yard in Nottingham, when I noticed a white bird hovered near the entryway to the house. My first thought was “Is this a pigeon or a dove?” I went to find my husband Roger so he could take a photo and then figure out if the bird was injured and needed help.
I took this photo of the sad-looking white bird with my iPhone. It took no notice of me. The White Dove by Kathryn Frieden.
A few minutes later, Roger saw and photographed a Cooper’s Hawk flying by with the bird in its talons.
The Cooper’s Hawk pauses proudly for a few minutes on the roof of a birdhouse with its prey and then flies off.
Editor’s Note: birds commonly called “white doves” are usually domestic Rock Pigeons bred for their white color. Many are released at weddings or events and are not truly wild birds. Because they are domestic, they may be less equipped to survive on their own, especially in unfamiliar areas or during harsh weather.
If you encounter a white dove:
- Observe first: If the bird is flying well and behaving normally, it may be temporarily getting its bearings.
- Check for bands: Some birds have leg bands that can help identify an owner.
- Provide help if needed: If the bird seems tame, weak, or grounded, you can offer seeds and fresh water and consider gently containing it in a safe, ventilated box.
- Contact a professional: The American Racing Pigeon Union has information on how to care for a lost pigeon and find it’s owner. Visit this link to learn more.
In some cases, these birds are trained homing pigeons and may be able to return on their own. Others, however, may need assistance.
Enjoy this field note? Check out other field notes from Spring 2025!
- A Tailless Red-winged Blackbird Named Bob by Len Medlock
- Garter Snake Eats a Wilson’s Warbler by Cole Parks
- Osprey Nesting Tree Collapses by Kirk Elwell
- Spiderwebs are Useful! (for hummingbirds, at least) by Kathryn Frieden
- White-faced Song Sparrow by Jim Sparrell
- The Fate of a “White Dove” by Kathryn Frieden
- Woodcock Distraction Display by Milton Trimitsis
Want even more? Visit our “From the Field” page.