Interesting facts: The wood pigeon originated in open landscapes with copses. Today it is found more often in urban green areas and large gardens. Its favourite foods are maize, cereals, acorns and beech nuts, as well as fresh green leaves. The pair builds their nests from thin, bare twigs, preferably in large trees. They are so sheer that you can see the eggs from underneath.

Characteristics: The largest pigeon in Central Europe; predominantly grey plumage, touches of red on the neck and breast, large white patches on the side of the neck; yellow eyes; wings with distinctive white parts; pink to skin-coloured legs and feet

Body length: Longer than 30 cm (longer than a blackbird)

Distribution: Deciduous and mixed forests, copses, parks and gardens, even in town centres