Do Pigeons Like Rain?
We see pigeons sitting calmly on our windowsills, collecting food on pigeon squares, and sometimes standing still amidst heavy rain.
It’s natural to question why aren’t they taking cover. Do pigeons like rain? The answer is Yes! Pigeons do like rain. There’s no verbal confirmation from the pigeon community regarding this, but from their behavior, the answer is clear.
Also, rainwater benefits them in numerous ways, such as helping them to clean their body, get rid of parasites, and be used as drinking water. To find out how we came to the conclusion that pigeons like rain, keep reading.
Want to learn more about pigeon fun fact:
Do Pigeons Enjoy Being in the Rain?
Though pigeons can’t answer with their own words, their actions speak loudly and the answer is clear. Pigeons sitting in the rain are a common sight that we often witness during rainy days.
Even the pet pigeons who have a safe and secure shelter don’t run when water bursts out of the sky and instead decide to remain out in the open.
Since they are not being forced to sit in the rain, it seems pigeons do enjoy being in the rain. But there can be one other reason for them to stay in the rain. It’s tough to fly in the rain.
To fly freely, they need low atmospheric pressure on their wings as it helps them to get off the ground.
But that condition isn’t fulfilled during the rain, and they need to muster significantly more energy to lift off the ground during the rain. That’s why many pigeons simply don’t bother to fly and stay put.
Why Do Pigeons Open Their Wings in the Rain?
They open their wings during the rain so that the water gets through their feathers and soaks the body with the fresh water. It gives them pure joy but also serves some purposes.
01. To Get Rid of Parasites
Parasites can be a nuisance for pigeons. Since pigeons like to spend a lot of time outside and prefer to socialize with other birds, it’s easy for them to get parasites.
Mites can be particularly painful for them if you don’t offer them proper treatment.
So, when the rain bursts out of the sky, pigeons open their wings so that the rainwater washes away the parasites.
02. Remove Dust and Dirt
Pigeon feathers collect a lot of dust. But dirty feathers aren’t ideal for flying and it also makes them feel uncomfortable until they are cleaned.
Rainwater provides them with an easy and effective way to clean their feathers and get rid of dirt. After the dirt is gone, it gives them a refreshing feeling and newfound energy to move around.
Read our article about “Pigeon Fun Facts“
How Does Rain Affect the Behavior of Pigeons?
It’s understood from their behavior that pigeons enjoy the rain as it’s generally beneficial for them.
That’s true for low to moderate amounts of rain, as their feathers are waterproof enough to soak the rain and not let them feel cold.
However, their feathers aren’t as waterproof as the duck, so when the rain is heavy, it will go through the feathers and make them cold. That’s not good for their health and in this situation, you’ll see them less active than usual.
So, if you see them sitting in one place for too long after being in the rain, then try to make them warm. Wipe their body with a clean towel and you may even turn the heater on to make them feel better.
Also, if you see that the rain is getting too heavy, you should act on your own and get the pigeon inside.
Because as I explained above, it can sometimes be difficult for them to fly in heavy rain. In such situations, your help would be very useful to get them back to safety.
Do Pigeons Migrate Due to Rain?
Uusal rain doesn’t affect them much and has no bearing on their decision to migrate. However, if there are thunderstorms or regular storms from which they can’t protect their nest, then they will migrate from that place.
Because pigeons like shelters that can protect them and their babies when the rain gets heavy and dangerous for them. So, if there’s a thunderstorm in your and you see a fresh pigeon nest in your house, don’t be surprised.
In fact, I suggest you actively look for pigeons after heavy storms and if you find any, take care of them.
What Kinds of Cages Are Ideal for Protecting Pigeons from Rain?
As a pet parent, you need to protect the pigeons from rain. If the cage is made of a wired net, then it could be vulnerable to damage from severe rain.
You may find the eggs destroyed and the baby pigeons dead. So, get your pigeon a cage that can give them complete safety from heavy storms.
Wood and concrete can be ideal materials for cages as they give them protection from rain and save them from strong wind as well.
Do Pigeons Use Rain as a Source of Water?
Yes, pigeons use rain as a source of water as we see them open their wings in the rain and bathe in it.
Also, pigeons and other birds use rain for drinking water. Most birds that live in the wild rely on natural water sources like rain, snow, and ponds to quench their thirst.
However, if you’re keeping pigeons as pets in an urban setup, you should arrange a fresh source of water for them. Clean tap water will do for pigeons and most other birds.
Wrap Up
Though pigeons can’t voice their opinions, their behaviors during the rain reveal their fond relationship with the rain.
Overall, the rain is advantageous for them and, in some cases essential as well. But there are some nuances, as too much rain can be harmful for pigeons.
So, if you have pet pigeons, you need to be careful of how much it’s exposed to the rain.
References:
- https://www.bto.org/our-science/projects/gbw/about/news/latest/2012/woodpigeon-wash
- https://www.birdsandblooms.com/gardening/attracting-butterflies/attracting-birds-wildlife-extreme-weather/
