Small game - birds

Columba palumbus

Columba palumbus is one of the large representatives of the Columbidae family (the largest in Bulgaria). Its body length is 41-43 cm, wingspan about 75 cm, and weight 300-650 g. There is no pronounced sexual dimorphism, but the male is slightly larger and has a metallic sheen on the throat. Its plumage is bluish-grey with a white spot on either side of the neck, and the throat and breast are reddish in color. The legs are red, the beak is light-colored. It is found throughout Europe and most of Asia. It is widespread in Bulgaria. Inhabits forested areas up to 1800 m above sea level. It lives in different types of relatively rare forests, looking for food on the ground and trees. Herbivorous, feeds on grains, seeds of cultivated plants, fruits, young shoots, weeds, etc. He flew to Bulgaria and returned to the country in early spring. It settles mainly in deciduous forests. It also climbs high in the mountains. In Rila it was also established at 2000 m above sea level. It is easily tamed. Lives up to 15 years.