What are pigeon‑rats called? - briefly
«Bandicota indica», commonly referred to as the bandicoot rat, is the species identified by that nickname. It is a large, burrowing rodent native to South and Southeast Asia.
What are pigeon‑rats called? - in detail
The creature frequently labeled as pigeon‑rat belongs to the species Columba livia, domesticated form Columba livia domestica. It is commonly called the feral pigeon, city pigeon or rock dove.
Taxonomic placement:
- Kingdom «Animalia»
- Phylum «Chordata»
- Class «Aves»
- Order «Columbiformes»
- Family «Columbidae»
- Genus «Columba»
- Species «livia»
Synonymous common names include:
- rock dove
- city pigeon
- street pigeon
Physical description: compact body, short neck, iridescent neck feathers, plumage ranging from bluish‑gray to brown, average weight ≈ 300 g.
Behavioral traits: highly adaptable, thrives in urban environments, feeds on discarded food, seeds, and insects. Breeding occurs year‑round in temperate zones; clutch size typically two eggs.
Distribution: originally native to Europe, North Africa and South Asia; now worldwide due to human‑mediated dispersion.
Ecological impact: competes with native bird species for nesting sites, can spread diseases such as histoplasmosis and salmonellosis, yet provides food for raptors and scavengers.
Conservation status: listed as «Least Concern» by the IUCN, population stable owing to abundant urban habitats.
Historical usage of the nickname: derived from the animal’s habit of nesting in lofts and warehouses, spaces traditionally associated with rats, combined with its pigeon‑like appearance.
Overall, the term pigeon‑rat refers to the urban pigeon, scientifically identified as Columba livia domestica, with well‑documented taxonomy, morphology, behavior, and global presence.