Homing Pigeons ??

 Why do fat chance and slim chance mean the same thing?

Video 1: Wood Pigeon Feeding on Mealworms

There is no shortage of wood pigeons in our neighbourhood which has left us wondering whether our garden will once again be, literally, a fertile breeding ground for these birds. Although wood pigeons are a bit of a nuisance, we are grateful that we do not see the alternative (i.e. feral pigeons) in the garden. In the centre of Hereford (about half a mile or 800 metres away) there are at least a hundred feral pigeons feeding on the scraps and detritus of its human population. The seagulls provide some competition for the food but are always outnumbered by the pigeons. Regrettably, some people deliberately put out food for the pigeons (often in the form of bread crumbs or pieces); bread, especially of the white variety, is not a healthy option for birds and just attracts more birds like vermin - along with their associated droppings! I blame Mary Poppins!!

Video 2: Feed the Birds from Mary Poppins

Getting back to the subject of wood pigeons nesting in the garden, we recently spotted a pair checking out the winter-flowering cherry tree (somewhat lacking in flowers this year) where an unsuccessful nest was built last year [note: video filmed through the window hence lower quality] ...

Video 3: Pair of Wood Pigeons at Last Year's Nest in the Winter-Flowering Cherry

Last year's wood pigeon nest (Photo 1) was certainly not the engineering marvel of some other UK birds ...

Photo 1: Last Year's Wood Pigeon Nest

... nor is it as cosy as those of the long-tailed tits that often fly over our garden ...

Video 4: Long-tailed Tit Nest (h/t John Walters)

Although the wood pigeon nest looks flimsy (even minimalistic), it must be reasonably robust since it may need to accommodate two large chicks until they fledge.

There may be some competition for the nest this year. Some collared doves ...

Photo 2: Collared Dove in the Winter-flowering Cherry (March 2026)

have also booked a viewing appointment for this des-res - its most desirable feature being its closeness to the bird feeder and its free all-you-can eat buffet! After a quick tour ...

Video 5: Collared Doves Inspecting Possible Nesting Site?

... they flew off to the nearby conifer tree and haven't put in an offer. Which is a little surprising as their nest-building skills are remarkably similar to those of the wood pigeon.

We'll probably have to wait for the cherry tree to leaf up and provide a bit more cover before a final decision is made. Meanwhile, alternative accommodation is still available at the Wisteria Lodge.