Do Pigeons Dance?
You may have come across a flock of pigeons spinning in circles on the ground or in the air. As if they are doing a dance performance together. And that made you ask, Do pigeons really dance?
You’ll be surprised to know that, yes, pigeons do dance. Not all their dance moves are for entertainment purposes but more for their survival. But they can be taught goofy dancing as well.
So, if you’ve seen your friend’s pigeon moving his body to music and wondering how it was possible, we can give you a complete guide on how to train your pigeon to do a little dance too.
Want to learn more about pigeon fun fact:
What Is the Meaning of Pigeon Dancing?
You may have noticed that pigeons sometimes move in circles with their flock. At times, they even fly in circles as other pigeons join them and make their flocks bigger. And this act of spinning in circles can be called pigeon dancing.
They do this to communicate with each other. By doing the dance, they can send signals among themselves about something positive or even when danger is approaching.
But this is not the only ‘dance’ they do. Pigeons also have a goofy side that they express by showing their cute and funny dance moves to upbeat music. It’s definitely a rare sight but a very special one.
If you’re lucky, you might come across pigeons bobbing their heads up and down to music beats in the street. Though you can also train your pet pigeon to do a little dancing, it might take a lot of practice and patience. But it’s surely worth the wait.
Read our article about “Pigeon Fun Facts“
How to Train Your Pigeon to Dance?
Pigeons are highly intelligent birds and they know how to follow instructions. That’s why it’s possible for you to teach them many tricks.
Dancing is probably the cutest thing a pigeon can ever do! Watching them jump back and forth and keep moving to the music is going to make you smile, even on terrible days.
Here are some steps you can follow to train your pigeon to dance!
Play Catchy Music
Scientific research shows that pigeons can sense Earth’s magnetic field. They use these energy pulses to go in the right direction and find their way back to their sweet home.
In a similar way, they are also able to detect sound waves and move in that direction.
And for that, the best kind of tune would be upbeat music. Genres like rock, pop, EDM, etc. are good choices for you to play in front of your pet pigeons.
The tempo of upbeat music can make them move according to the tune quickly and rhythmically. Don’t be discouraged if they don’t start grooving as soon as they hear any sound. Give them some time to spread their wings.
Show Them Your Moves
Pigeons are capable of following instructions. You just have to show them what you’re trying to teach them. So, to make them dance, dancing is what to do!
If you’re a loving pet owner, your pigeons must be very close to you. Seeing you moving side to side and jamming your head to the music will make them want to do the same thing.
Encourage Them with Rewards
Pigeons know when you’re appreciating them. And receiving rewards inspires them to continue doing what earned them the treat.
While you’re having a dancing session with your birdie, have some of his favorite food handy and keep giving it to him for every progress.
It will help them understand they are behaving exactly how you’re asking them to. And gradually, they will step up their dancing game!
What Is the Purpose of Dancing in Pigeons?
As we’ve mentioned in this article, there are two types of pigeon dance. One is for communication and the other one is for pure entertainment. We will try to explain the reasons they use their dancing for their benefit in different circumstances.
To Protect Themselves from Danger
Unfortunately, our little pigeon buddies often fall prey to predators both in the ground and the sky. To save themselves from getting attacked, they prefer to stay and fly in the flock because, well, unity is strength.
When they fear that danger is near, they spin in circles, aka dance to send signals to other pigeons to come and join them. And that’s not the only reason they try to catch the attention of others.
Before sunset, they make sounds by spinning in circles and letting each other know that it’s time to go home.
Not just predatory animals, but also during harsh weather, they communicate with their friends through dancing and making sounds and find a safe place to be together.
To Find Home and Food
Pigeons use the Earth’s magnetic field to locate their destination or even food. By spinning in circles or doing the pigeon dance, they can find the right position to detect the energy pulses and, as a result, find their home and food sources.
Loss of Orientation
Sometimes, pigeons don’t do these dances voluntarily. If they are infected by a certain virus, they might lose their sense of orientation. And as a result, their wings stop working properly and they end up circling around in the sky in a directionless way.
Do Pigeons Do a Mating Dance?
You may be wondering if pigeons also perform a mating dance like many other birds and the answer is yes.
Pigeon dance doesn’t always mean a danger is nearby. In fact, sometimes, it can mean their romantic interest is nearby. When a male pigeon is interested in a female pigeon, he tries to impress her by showing off his super cool dance moves.
Their mating dance has a couple of common steps. The male pigeon starts by bobbing his head up and down while cooing.
After catching the attention of the female pigeon, he tries to make himself look more attractive in her eyes by fluffing up his chest and elongating his tail.
If, with all these theatrics, the male pigeon is successful in winning the heart of the female pigeon, she responds affirmatively by doing a similar dance, bowing and cooing. With time, they become close to each other and then live happily ever after.
Conclusion
In final words, pigeons have various adorable habits and dancing is one of them. Sometimes, it can be for just a little fun, but other times, it’s for serious matters. By doing the pigeon dance, they can communicate warning signs or even romantic love.
If you’re a pet owner, consider teaching your bird friend a few dancing moves so that you can impress your friends at the next party.
