Which bird best matches the following description: medium sized, about 13 inches long, blue to grey, with two black bars and patches of white on the wings, weighing around 16 ounces, mating for life, and forming flocks?

Which bird best matches the following description: medium sized, about 13 inches long, blue to grey, with two black bars and patches of white on the wings, weighing around 16 ounces, mating for life, and forming flocks?

• A. Pigeon
• B. Starling
• C. Canada Goose
• D. Sparrow

Answer: (A)

The description matches a pigeon. Their medium size (about 12–13 inches), blue‑gray body with two distinct black wing bars, and occasional white wing patches fit the classic rock dove/pigeon look. They commonly weigh around a pound and are known for forming long-term pair bonds while moving in flocks, especially in urban areas. The other birds described don’t share this combination of size, wing pattern, and social/monogamous behavior, so the pigeon is the best match.

The description matches a pigeon. Their medium size (about 12–13 inches), blue‑gray body with two distinct black wing bars, and occasional white wing patches fit the classic rock dove/pigeon look. They commonly weigh around a pound and are known for forming long-term pair bonds while moving in flocks, especially in urban areas. The other birds described don’t share this combination of size, wing pattern, and social/monogamous behavior, so the pigeon is the best match.