Feeding Pigeons and Doves

General Information

Knowledge of bird nutrition is constantly evolving due to heightened awareness of the importance of nutrition and increased research into birds’ different needs. As with all other animals, pigeons and doves need a proper balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fat, vitamins, minerals, and water. Different species of birds often require different foods.

Pigeons and doves belong to the order of birds called Columbiformes. Although pigeons and doves are a diverse group of birds, they share some clinically significant anatomy and physiology, including a large, bilobed crop (ingluvies) and crop milk production.

Should I be concerned about what my pigeon or dove eats?

Proper nutrition is commonly neglected in pet birds. You should discuss your bird’s nutritional needs with your veterinarian. Too often, owners assume they are feeding a proper diet to their pigeon or dove when, in fact, they are not. 

Poor nutrition is a common reason for many health problems in birds. Bone structure, feather condition, and health of the liver, heart, and kidneys all depend on how well your birds are fed, so it is essential you know their proper diet. Specific needs may require modifications in the diet (e.g., racing season for pigeons and nesting season for doves and pigeons). Stay in contact with your avian veterinarian to stay current on your birds’ nutritional needs.

What do wild pigeons and doves eat?

Wild pigeons and doves eat a variety of grains, seeds, greens, berries, fruits, and will occasionally eat insects, snails and earthworms.

What should I feed my pigeon or dove?

Pelleted Diets

Several types of commercially formulated, pelleted diets in various colors, shapes, and sizes have been developed to meet the nutritional needs of pigeons and doves. Compared with parrots (hook-billed birds), pigeons and doves have very small beaks and do best with small-sized pellets. Hand-raised babies are the easiest to start on a pelleted diet. Pellets should ideally represent approximately 50% of a pigeon’s diet along with small amounts of seed and fresh produce.

Seeds

Pigeons have traditionally been fed all-seed diets. Commercially available seed mixes for pigeons may contain 2-5 different kinds of seeds. However, seeds tend to be high in fat and nutrient-deficient. Commercially available seeds are not the same kinds of seeds that wild pigeons eat. Seeds are deficient in calcium, vitamin A, and other nutrients. Often, these seed mixes are fed as the only source of food, leading to ill health and potentially shortened lifespan. Seeds can be part of a pigeon’s diet, but should not comprise the entire diet.

There are pigeon diets available that contain some seed plus grains. Some are also enriched with brewer’s yeast plus vitamins and minerals. Different diet formulations exist for performance birds, resting birds, and breeding birds. The problem with offering pigeons and doves diets containing a mixture of pellets and seeds is that they selectively eat only certain seeds and do not get any of the nutritional benefits from the pellets.

Fruits and Vegetables

Finely chopped vegetables and greens, plus smaller amounts of fruit, should be offered as part of a pigeon’s or dove’s daily diet. Pale vegetables, such as iceberg/head lettuce and celery, generally have a high water composition and little nutritional value, so should not be offered. Avocado is reported to be potentially toxic to birds and should not be offered.

Fruits and vegetables must be washed thoroughly to remove chemicals. Pigeons and doves have small beaks, so vegetables and fruits should be shredded or cut up into tiny, manageable pieces. Fruits and vegetables should be offered in a separate dish from pellets and other foods. If your bird appears to develop a particular fancy for one food item, reduce its volume or stop feeding it temporarily to promote the consumption of other foods.

Water

Fresh, clean water must be available at all times. Depending on the quality of your tap water, you might consider the use of bottled water. Dishes must be cleaned thoroughly every day with soap and water.

Can I feed people food to my pigeon or dove?

As a rule, any wholesome, nutritious food that you and your family eat your bird can eat, but in small quantities. Follow the general guidelines discussed. Dairy products should be consumed in moderation, as birds are lactose intolerant. Never offer junk food, chocolate, salty foods (chips, pretzels, popcorn), alcoholic beverages, or products containing caffeine, as they may be toxic to birds. Suggested items are listed at the bottom of this article.

Will my bird have any different needs throughout its life?

Birds that are extremely young, stressed, injured, laying eggs or raising young may have certain special requirements. There are specially formulated pelleted foods available for birds with specific nutritional requirements. Consult your avian veterinarian regarding these situations.

Does my bird need extra vitamins, minerals or amino acids?

Your avian veterinarian can help you assess your bird’s diet and its unique needs. In general, birds eating pellets as the basis of their diet do not need supplements. Specific vitamins or minerals may be more important at various times during a bird's life (e.g., egg-laying requires calcium supplementation). Calcium supplements are available if your bird is found deficient or has a specific need.

Does my bird need gravel or grit?

Controversy exists over the need for gravel or grit. It was once believed that grit was necessary for the mechanical breakdown of food in the gizzard. However, pigeons and doves ingest seeds whole and seem to do fine without grit, unlike parrots, which remove the outside seed hull before they eat the seed kernel. To aid in the breakdown of food, you may offer pigeons and doves a small amount of crushed eggshell or digestible oyster shell grit, which can also serve as a source of calcium. Many birds have gastrointestinal problems if they eat too much grit, so only offer digestible oyster shell.

What pointers should I remember about feeding my pigeon or dove?

• Always monitor the amount of food eaten every day, by each bird.
• Offer fresh water every day.
• Offer small amounts of fresh vegetables or fruit every day.
• Clean all food and water dishes daily.
• If a bird rejects a food one day, it may accept it another day. Keep trying!

Suggested "people foods" you can feed your pigeon or dove, in small quantities: