Feral pigeons (
Columba livia domestica) are birds derived from
domestic pigeons that have returned to the wild. Originally bred from the wild
rock dove, which naturally inhabits sea-
cliffs and mountains, these pigeons use the ledges of buildings as a substitute for sea cliffs. They have become adapted to urban life, preying on insects and scavenging. They are abundant in towns and cities throughout much of the world.
Photograph: Muhammad Mahdi Karim