Introducing the Albino Pigeon, a rare avian species that evokes wonder. This pigeon variety is a rare sight with its pure white feathers and distinctive pinkish-red eyes. In the following blog, we’ll embark on a journey to explore every facet of their existence. From their distinctive appearance to their habitat, longevity, and nesting habits, we’ll explore their world. So, join us as we uncover the secrets of these exquisite and elusive creatures that gracefully grace our skies.
About Albino Pigeons
The Albino pigeon is renowned for its striking, all-white appearance. Only 1% of pigeons in the wild have albinism. Undoubtedly, all the creations of nature are exceptional in their features. Similarly, albino pigeons are admired for their striking white feathers, which often captivate viewers. At the same time, these pigeons have a specific body shape.
while pigeons and doves share several characteristics, They also exhibit key differences, essential for identification. Both doves and pigeons possess round heads, short necks, short legs, slender beaks, and solid, compact bodies, creating a sense of similarity.
It’s a common misconception that doves and white pigeons are the same. This belief, while common, holds true only upon closer examination. The most noticeable distinction lies in their respective sizes. Their tails differ: doves have pointed tails, while pigeons have fan-shaped ones.
Are white pigeons rare?
Other than Antarctica, pigeons exist in every part of the world. But, talking about entire white pigeons, you may have to wait and find them because only 1% of all the pigeons are pure white.
Albino rock pigeon
Albino Rock Pigeons (Columba livia) have white plumage and pink eyes due to albinism. These pigeons have a distinct appearance and are more vulnerable to predators due to their lack of camouflage.
They are a rare sight, and they face camouflage challenges, making them an easy target for predators. Their lifespan may be shorter than pigeons with standard plumage.
Albino rock doves also have pinkish-red eyes, unlike the typical orange or brown eyes of most pigeons. This genetic condition, albinism, affects all pigment, making them stand out from their grey-toned kin.
The appearance and albinism in albino pigeons
Albinism is a rare genetic condition that prevents the production of melanin, leaving the skin without pigment. Both humans and animals that are affected develop white hair and a pale complexion. The term “albino” refers to a person with this condition. Usually chubby birds with small heads and short legs, albino pigeons are no exception. They have little bills with a saddle-shaped piece of skin between them and their foreheads.
These pigeons typically range from 12 to 14 inches in length. Their average weight is 8 to 13 oz, contributing to their overall identification. They are not particularly large, but they can spread their large wings, and their wing span ranges from 25 to 30 inches.
While regular white pigeons have dark eyes, albino pigeons are characterized by pink eyes. Eye colour is the first thing an expert notes while checking for albinism in albino pigeons.
Where do they live?
Pigeons are found globally, except in extreme climates like the upper Arctic, Antarctica, and the Sahara Desert. This includes regions like the upper Arctic, Antarctica, and the Sahara Desert. Asia, North Africa, and Europe are where modern pigeons first appeared. They are intelligent and adaptable, and you can find more of them in cultivated regions. Pigeons have figured out how to use buildings and human productivity as shelter. Pigeons with albinism are no different in this regard and inhabit the same regions.
Nest specifications
Pigeon nesting sites need to be protected, dry, and located on a flat area, including attics, rooftops, ledges, eaves, and beneath bridges. A cave or a cliff crevice might be a better choice for their natural nesting location. The area is littered with twigs and other detritus.
As pigeons use their nests year-round, these often accumulate feathers and droppings over time.
The pair will utilize the same nest and location for the subsequent brood and add extra material once the previous brood is forced from the nest. These recycled nests can get up to 8 inches tall and 20 inches wide and can be used repeatedly for several years. Pigeons that may not have perished or unhatched eggs may be among some of the “mummies.”
Life Span
Unexpectedly, Albino pigeons can live up to 33 years in captivity. Pigeon lifespan
that exist in the wild and on rocks for between three and five years. A domesticated pigeon has a life expectancy of over 15 years.
Albino pigeons are attractive and very attractive to the eye because of their rarity, but compared to other pigeons, their outlook puts them at a disadvantage. They have poor eyesight due to the mutation, which makes it challenging to spot potential predators and hazards. Albino pigeons tend to be weaker and tend to fly less than regular pigeons.
Due to these restrictions, they are easy prey for various predators. Birds like the eagles, hawks, and owls prey on pigeons. Other threats include predators like foxes, snakes, cats, dogs, and even rats that prey on unwary pigeons.
What is pigeon life expectancy?
Pigeons of any breed can live over 15 years in captivity, with proper care; its lifespan is more than 15 years. On the other hand, a bird in captivity, with proper care, can live for 30 years.
Eggs and babies
Within the first few days of nesting, female pigeons usually deposit two eggs on average. The female and male will both perch on the eggs to protect them. The yellow-down babies from these eggs are born after around 18 days. Squabs are the name for young pigeons.
The albinism gene must be present in both parents for a squab to be born with the condition. Albino newborn pigeons initially have the same appearance and behaviour as regular squabs. They will take crop milk while they are in the nest. The parent has regurgitated a thick liquid called “crop milk.” Squabs are fed this way for around ten days before they can begin consuming the same foods as adult females and male pigeons do.
The size of a squab doubles in two days. That attempts to make them one of the vertebrates with the quickest growth rates. There will be observable changes within two weeks. They will begin to develop flying feathers, which will be white due to their condition. They will have white feathers by the third week, and it will be time to flee the nest by the 28th day.
It is noteworthy that squabs spend roughly 15 days more in their nests than most backyard birds. Albino squabs may take longer to develop strength for flight due to their genetic condition. For an albino, this may take considerably longer due to their weakened constitution.
If you spot an Albino Pigeon, what does it mean?
Pigeons are typically regarded as a symbol of fertility or wealth. They are also considered symbols of luck and happiness. According to history, it was the first bird that humans domesticated. Since white pigeons and doves are so distinctive, that appears to be the case for them. The following are some mystical connotations in association with white pigeons:
Peace
If you encounter an albino or a white pigeon, it means that now is the ideal time for you to find inner peace. When your heart is troubled and you see a white pigeon, it is an assurance that things will get better, no matter how terrible they are.
Hope
If you ever feel like giving up, the universe will send you a white dove or pigeon as a sign of encouragement. Never give up on your dreams simply because they are not unfolding as you hoped.
Visiting Angel
A white feather is frequently linked to angels. When you see a pigeon, your guardian angel comes to visit and lets you know they are always thinking of you. This incident occurs when you are grieving the loss of a loved one.
Albino pigeon vs albino dove
Some people confuse white pigeons with doves due to their similar appearance. they look similar, which causes confusion. There is a science between them, so let us make you understand. Many birds referred to as doves and pigeons belong to the same species. Some are white, while others have black, grey, or green markings. All are subspecies of the rock pigeon, Columba livia domestica. The Columbidae bird family, which includes more than 300 bird species, consists of pigeons and doves. They both have thick, spherical bodies, short necks, and thin heads, although pigeons tend to be bigger and stumpier. Doves, on the other hand, tend to be smaller in height.
FAQs
How much is an albino pigeon worth?
It is the one of the most expensive pigeons species, worth around $1.4 million.
How rare is an albino pigeon?
These are very rare because only 1% of the pigeons show the symptoms of the albinism.
How much is a white pigeon worth?
The value of a white pigeon depends on its breed and purpose. Racing pigeons, especially champions, can fetch millions like one famous bird named Armando who sold for a whopping $1.4 million. However, most white pigeons, like those bred for releases at weddings, cost considerably less, typically in the range of $15 to $25.
Are all white pigeons albino?
No, not all white pigeons are albino. Albinism is a rare genetic condition that affects all pigment, including in eyes. So, a true albino pigeon would have pink or red eyes and completely white feathers. Most white pigeons are simply a color variation caused by selective breeding. They often have dark eyes and normal pigmentation in their beak and feet.
How do the albino pigeons look?
The albino pigeons are completely white birds with pink eyes. They are more likely to have a shorter lifespan because of their all-white plumage, which leaves them more vulnerable to predators. Due to their distinct look, albino pigeons find it challenging to conceal themselves, making them an easy target.
What are the survival chances for the albino pigeons?
These white pigeons cannot survive for an extended period, as their feathers are not as strong because they do not have melanin in their bodies. Another obstacle to their survival is their eyesight, as they have poor vision. They cannot travel a lot because of their poor vision quality and escape from predators.
Where do albino pigeons like to make their nest?
Albino pigeons typically build their nests under covers. Typically, they would build their nests on windows that had some shade or cover. Because of this, they feel safe and secure there. An albino pigeon only builds a nest in a location where it is convenient for them to lay eggs, and they feel at ease.
How much does an albino pigeon cost?
As it is considered the rarest bird in the world, its prices are high due to their rarity. If you are fortunate enough to purchase this breed, it is worth more than 1 million dollars. If you want to find this pigeon then you have to type “albino pigeon for sale” on google and you’ll be able to find the ones that are available for sale in your nearest area.
Is the albino pigeon able to mate with a dove?
Since they are different species, they cannot mate in the wild. Pigeons and doves, however, can and will breed together if they have no other choice. Since individual breeding cages are where most hybrids are created, they have little choice except to breed with each other or not at all.
Are white and black pigeons rare?
Yes, white pigeons and black pigeons are rare. The specific name of this breed is nun pigeon. Breeders breed them mostly for exhibitions and are uncommon to see everywhere.
Also Read: Old German Owl Pigeon: Breed Guide
Conclusion
Albino pigeons are extremely rare. Also, buying an albino pigeon requires a lot of money. It has a unique look with unique eye colors. Its appearance makes it very easy to recognize if you are lucky enough to get a chance to see it. People who compare white pigeons with doves need to change their perceptions. Pigeons are known as symbols of luck, fortune, and prosperity. Their life span depends on the condition in which they are surviving. Ultimately, we suggest our readers take care of these birds, so their breeds may survive.
