Why Do Pigeons Growl? Understanding the Causes

Pigeons are a common sight in many cities around the world. These birds, also known as rock doves, are known for their cooing sounds and behavior of pecking at the ground for food. Many people have also noticed that pigeons growl, which seems out of character for these gentle creatures.

The pigeon is unlikely to harm you. Growling is a typical pigeon behavior usually used to express territorial aggression or warn other birds. Understanding why pigeons growl and how to deal with a growling pigeon can help you avoid any potential conflicts and appreciate these fascinating creatures even more.

So, if you’re curious about why pigeons growl, I invite you to stay in until the end because I’ll be delving deeper into this topic.

What Are the Possible Causes of Pigeon Growling?

As an enthusiast of pigeons, it is critical to possess knowledge of the potential reasons behind their growling behavior. The following are some of the most prevalent causes of pigeon growling:

Territorial Aggression

As mentioned, These birds are extremely territorial and will defend their territory against other birds, animals, and humans. Growling is often a sign that a pigeon feels threatened or is preparing to attack an intruder. They may growl when they feel their space is invaded or sense that their food or nesting site is threatened.

Warning Signals

Pigeons also use growling as a warning signal to other birds. When pigeons feel danger nearby, they may emit a low growling noise to alert others to the potential threat. This warning signal helps others to be aware of their surroundings and take appropriate action to avoid danger.

Communication with Other Pigeons

Growling is also a means of communication between pigeons. They communicate with each other through a variety of sounds, one of which is growling. They may growl to establish dominance over other birds or signal their location to other pigeons.

Fear

When pigeons feel threatened or scared, they may emit a low growling noise as a defensive mechanism. This growling sound may be accompanied by other defensive behaviors, such as puffing up their feathers or flying away.

How to Deal with a Growling Pigeon?

If you encounter a growling pigeon, it is vital to proceed with caution. These birds can become aggressive if they feel their territory is threatened, and their sharp beaks and talons can cause injury. Here are some tips on how to deal with a growling pigeon:

Give the Bird Space

Giving it space is the best way to deal with a growling pigeon. If you encounter a growling pigeon, back away slowly and avoid making eye contact. Do not try to approach or touch the bird, as this can trigger a defensive response.

Avoid Provoking the Bird

Avoid doing anything that might provoke the bird, such as making loud noises, sudden movements, or waving your arms. Keep your pets away from the bird, as they can trigger a defensive response.

Remove the Source of the Problem

If the pigeon is growling because it feels its territory is being threatened, try to remove the source of the problem. For example, if the bird is growling at you while eating, move away from the bird or cover your food to remove the temptation.

Seek Professional Help

If you cannot deal with a growling pigeon alone, seek professional help. Contact your local animal control or wildlife rehabilitation center for advice on handling the bird safely.

Do Pigeons Growl During Mating?

Pigeons are known to be social and monogamous birds, often forming lifelong bonds with their mates. During the mating season, they engage in various courtship behaviors, including cooing, billing, and even fighting. But do pigeons growl during mating?

The short answer is that pigeon growling is not typically associated with mating behavior. Instead, growling is usually a sign of territorial aggression or a response to a perceived threat.

During the mating season, male pigeons often engage in courtship behaviors to attract a mate. These behaviors include puffing up their feathers, cooing, and bowing to the female. Male pigeons may also engage in displays of aggression, such as chasing away other males or engaging in physical fights.

While male pigeons may use aggressive behavior to establish dominance over other males, this behavior is not typically accompanied by growling. Instead, male pigeons will often coo or make other vocalizations to attract the attention of females.

What Other Sounds Can a Pigeon Make?

While pigeon growling may be a relatively unique sound, these urban birds are known for various vocalizations. Here are some of the other sounds that pigeons can make:

Cooing

Perhaps the most well-known sound associated with pigeons is their cooing. Pigeons produce a soft, repetitive cooing sound that is often used as a form of communication between mates or as a way to establish territory.

Wing Whistles

Pigeons can also produce a distinctive sound by flapping their wings rapidly. This produces a high-pitched whistling sound that is used to warn alarm signals.

Hissing

When threatened or agitated, pigeons may produce a hissing sound. This is typically accompanied by other defensive behaviors, such as fluffing their feathers or puffing out their chest.

Pigeon Growling at Owner!

Can Pigeon Flocking Behavior Cause Them to Growl?

Can the reasons behind pigeon flock behavior lead them to growl? Pigeons flock together for various reasons, such as safety, finding food, or socializing. However, growling is not a behavior typically observed in pigeons. They communicate using cooing sounds and body signals like head bobbing. Growling is more commonly associated with mammals, like dogs or bears.

Do Pigeons Growl as a Form of Communication?

Pigeon noises: why so much?? Interestingly, pigeons do not growl to communicate. Instead, they use various vocalizations like cooing, gurgling, and cackling. These sounds serve as a means of expressing emotions, attracting mates, defending territory, and establishing hierarchy within their flock. So, while they may not growl, pigeons are certainly not shy when it comes to making their presence known.

Conclusion

Pigeon growling is a behavior that is typically associated with territorial aggression or a perceived threat. While not commonly observed during mating, pigeons are known for vocalizations, including cooing, wing whistles, and hissing.

Understanding the causes of pigeon growling and other vocalizations can help people better interact with these urban birds, whether by deterring aggressive behavior or fostering a greater appreciation for their unique vocal abilities.

If you encounter a growling pigeon, staying calm and avoiding approaching the bird is essential. Giving the pigeon plenty of space and avoiding direct eye contact can reduce the chances of an aggressive encounter.

If you are experiencing ongoing issues with pigeons or other urban wildlife, consider contacting a professional wildlife management company for assistance.