What is the difference between a pigeon and a dove?

Answer 1

Pigeons and doves are some 300 species of near passerine birds in the order Columbiformes. In general parlance the terms "dove" and "pigeon" are used somewhat interchangeably. In ornithological practice there is a tendency for "dove" to be used for smaller species and "pigeon" for larger ones, but this is in no way consistently applied, and historically the common names for these birds involve much variation between "dove" and "pigeon".

Answer 2

Ah, a question I can answer (I raise both and love them both for different reasons)! Dove is a more accurate description for both types of birds. "Pigeon" is the name given to the larger members of the species.

Answer 3

i own 13 "fancy pigeons" and from what i understand....they vary in size...pigeons are bigger, and dove are smaller....i think pigeons come in more varieties, while doves in only a couple....most noticeable, pigeons have respiratory glands on top of their beaks (kinda spongy like, many believe it helps them find their way home) doves dont have that....

Answer 4

I would explain it as a dove is white (traditionally a symbol of peace) and a pigeon is grey/black/white and commonly found in cities.
Hope it helps.

Answer 5

I think, generally speaking, doves are cleaner birds and reside in different, more natural habitats.

Pigeons are basically rats with wings.

Answer 6

They're different species in the same family, like dogs and wolves, or rats and mice.

Answer 7

About the same difference as you and your first cousin

Answer 8

Social standing and old money.