Pigeons aren't dumb, just birds of a feather
By Tom Angleberger


Tom Angleberger
The New River Valley-based reporter answers your questions Mondays in his column, What's on Your Mind?


Q: Why in the world do pigeons line up on high power lines over Interstate 581 and the railroad? Why would they choose such cold, blustery places? Mary Bishop, Roanoke

A: There's a temptation to say "because pigeons are dumb." I think many people would accept that answer and, actually, I'm not quite sure I want to give it up yet.

However, Virginia Tech ornithologist Jerry Via suggested another possibility.

"I have noticed this, too, but this time of the year it seems to happen more in the afternoon. I have wondered that even in this weather, if it is not warmer to be exposed to the sun on these power lines in the late afternoon when it is somewhat warmer."

And once one pigeon decides to sit somewhere, he or she may be joined by more.

"They are social birds, so it is pigeon see, pigeon do," Via explained.

This rule alone could account for the phenomenon. Imagine you have Pigeon A in a cozy, secluded nook and Pigeon B on a high wire. When pigeon C comes along, he doesn't even see Pigeon A, so he heads on over to hang with Pigeon B. This makes it even more likely that Pigeon D will see them and join them.

It's not unlike certain human behaviors, actually. Have you ever wondered if restaurants like a line that snakes out the door? People driving by see the line and assume the food must be great. In truth, the joint may simply have a very small waiting area.


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:That\\\'s so f That is funny.

I always thought they were counting cars! Just goes to you ya' how much I know. :Rolling eyes: