Patient Update: A Tale of Two Rock Pigeons
- Calgary Wildlife
- 1 hour ago
- 3 min read
In the early hours of September 2nd, 2025, the Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society received a call from a construction worker at a construction site in southwest Calgary. Amidst the noise and dust of heavy machinery, he had spotted two tiny, helpless rock pigeons. Their nest had been destroyed during work on the building, and their parents were nowhere to be found. Vulnerable and alone, they were struggling to survive in an environment that had no place for them.
Without hesitation, one of our team members was dispatched to rescue the birds. When they arrived, the babies were found inside a paint pail; cold, weak, and covered in grime. Their feathers and feet were matted with feces, bits of nest material, and construction debris. Both were severely underweight, their vents caked, and their pectoral muscles scalded. It was clear they had been through a great ordeal.
Upon arrival at our facility, they were carefully bathed to remove the debris and placed in a baby warmer for several hours to stabilize their body temperature. Only after they were dry and warm were they gently examined by our wildlife care team. Over the next few days, they received specialized diets, regular cleanings, and close monitoring to ensure they were regaining strength. Every day brought small signs of progress; brighter eyes, stronger perches, more confident fluttering.
Weeks passed, and the once-feeble pigeons began to thrive. Their feathers grew sleek and clean, their wings gained power, and their calls became stronger. After five weeks and three days of dedicated care, they were finally ready for release. On October 10th, under the open autumn sky, our team carried the pair to a quiet area for their return to freedom.
When the kennel door opened, the pigeons hesitated. They lingered on the edge for a few moments, and up on the car as if uncertain about leaving the safety that had sheltered them. One took a small hop, then another, before both finally lifting off together, circling above and catching the wind. Watching them soar into the horizon was a deeply moving reminder that compassion knows no species, and that every act of care—no matter how small—can lead to new beginnings.
At Calgary Wildlife, we believe no bird is too ordinary, no creature too small, and no life too insignificant to deserve care. Rock pigeons may be common in our city, but their lives hold the same value and beauty as any other wild animal we serve.
Pigeons are often overlooked in city life, yet they play a subtle but meaningful role in maintaining urban ecosystems. As opportunistic insect eaters and scavengers, they help reduce food waste and contribute to basic “street-cleaning” functions. Their presence also supports predator–prey relationships that keep raptors like falcons and hawks thriving in cities. Beyond their ecological value, pigeons are remarkably intelligent and emotionally sensitive birds. They demonstrate strong cognitive abilities, such as problem-solving, spatial navigation, and even recognizing individual human faces, and can form lasting social bonds with people who treat them kindly. Far from being mere background creatures, pigeons are active participants in the urban environment, both ecologically and socially.
Every day, our team responds to calls just like this, wild animals in need of care, compassion, and a second chance. You can help us continue this vital work by sponsoring a wild animal, donating to support our rehabilitation programs, or volunteering your time. Together, we can make sure that every creature, no matter how small, common, or fragile, has the chance to heal, grow, and return home to the wild where they belong.
For assistance with injured and orphaned wildlife, please contact Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society at 403-214-1312.
