On the orientation and homing abilities of wild Rock Doves (Columba livia livia Gmelin): a review

The available data on the orientation and homing abilities of wild Rock Doves (Columba livia livia) have been reviewed to construct a unified understanding of their spatial behavior. Evidence suggests that these birds use a time-compensated sun compass to select and maintain spatial directions. This ability allows them to rely not only on simple piloting, following landscape features, but also on true navigation mechanisms within their familiar area. Compared to homing pigeons of similar age and flight experience, wild Rock Doves exhibit similar initial orientation but longer return times and greater variability. The initial orientation of wild Rock Doves captured near their colony and released from sites both within and outside their familiar area is rarely homeward-directed, except when food is available near the colony. This suggests that their navigation system is optimized for foraging movements rather than long-distance returns home, as observed in homing pigeons. Further research is needed to investigate other aspects of their navigation mechanisms, such as the possible use of olfactory or magnetic cues. However, genetic introgression with feral and domestic conspecifics poses a significant threat to the conservation of wild populations, limiting opportunities for future studies.