BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Podcast

Bird Watching with Nadeem Perera - Pigeon

Jan 10, 2026
Join Nadim Pereira, known as BirdNadim, a wildlife presenter on a mission to shine a light on underappreciated birds, as he explores the often-maligned pigeon. He highlights the subtle beauty of their iridescent necks and unique markings, urging us to reconsider these urban fixtures. Nadim shares intriguing insights into their ancestry as rock doves and recounts a gripping personal sighting of a peregrine falcon in action. With a call to appreciate their ecological role, he encourages listeners to spot these fascinating birds in cities and coastal areas.
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INSIGHT

Understated Beauty Of Pigeons

  • Pigeons have understated beauty with iridescent necks, bright orange eyes and distinct wing bars.
  • Appreciating these details reveals complexity people often miss.
INSIGHT

Cities Mirror Cliff Habitats

  • Rock doves are the wild ancestors of city pigeons and naturally live on cliff faces.
  • Skyscrapers mimic cliffs, explaining why pigeons adapt so well to urban environments.
ANECDOTE

Peregrine Strike At Dover

  • Nadim recounts seeing a peregrine falcon strike a pigeon near the White Cliffs of Dover.
  • The moment was his first clear peregrine sighting and left a strong impression.
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