*Columba livia*, commonly known as the rock pigeon or rock dove, is a versatile and adaptable bird species found in cities, towns, and rural areas worldwide. This medium-sized bird typically measures about 30 to 35 cm (12 to 14 inches) in length and has a robust body with a short neck and a small head. The plumage of rock pigeons can vary widely due to domestication, but wild forms usually feature a slate-gray coloration with two black bars on each wing, a pale grayish belly, and an iridescent sheen on the neck, often displaying shades of green and purple.

Rock pigeons are highly social birds that often form flocks, especially when foraging for food. Their diet primarily consists of seeds, grains, and fruits, which they readily find in urban and rural environments. Their strong homing instinct allows them to navigate and return to their nests from great distances, making them popular as messenger birds historically.

These birds typically build their nests on ledges or in sheltered areas, using twigs and other debris. A female usually lays 1 to 2 eggs, which both parents incubate. Rock pigeons are known for their cooing calls and are often seen perched on buildings or in parks, contributing to the lively atmosphere of urban environments.