While out birding one of the trails in Ottawa, I spotted this pigeon perched low over a pond. While pigeons are viewed by many as pests given their large numbers congregating in local parks, it is actually a lovely looking bird. Especially when viewed up close in a natural setting.

This pigeon has a band on each leg. Based on the letters it is registered at the Canadian Racing Pigeon Union. It perched there for at least an hour before it flew off. It must have been quite tired and likely lost.

A hawk flew by overhead sending shorebirds scattering but the pigeon seemed oblivious to the danger. Unless it finds its way home, it likely will not last in the wild. Of course it is possible a hawk may have driven it down to this perch in the first place.