Ever found yourself gazing at a cluster of pigeons pecking around a park bench and suddenly wondered, “What do you call a group of pigeons?” You’re not alone—and the answer is much more fun (and complicated) than you might think. While the simple answer is “a flock,” the full story includes poetic terms, funny nicknames, and rich cultural history tied to these urban birds.
In this article, you’ll not only discover the main collective nouns but also find out what you call a group of pigeons, explore the names for other bird groups, and even learn how pigeon owners and fanciers describe their birds. Get ready for an entertaining, informative dive into the curious language of birds!
What Do You Call a Group of Pigeons? The Lighter Side of Bird Talk
Let’s start with the funny collective nouns that have popped up over time:
- A “dropping” of pigeons – Crude, but oddly fitting for city dwellers!
- A “plague” of pigeons – A cheeky nod to when pigeons take over a square.
- A “caboodle” or “passel” of pigeons – Old-timey and still charming.
- A “kit” of pigeons – Often used in pigeon racing circles (more on that later).
“One time, a flock swooped down during my lunch break, and a co-worker yelled, ‘It’s a plague!’ I still can’t un-hear it!”
These humorous terms aren’t official but are commonly used in playful conversation or among pigeon enthusiasts on forums.
What Is a Group of Doves Called? Pigeon Relatives Have Poetic Names Too
Doves and pigeons both belong to the Columbidae family. Yet, the names we use for their groups are surprisingly different. So, what is a group of doves called?
- A “dule” of doves – Derived from Old English, meaning sorrow or grief.
- A “piteousness” of doves – Emphasizes the symbolic association with peace and mourning.
Unlike the rougher terms for pigeons, doves get the poetic treatment, reinforcing their gentler image.
Group of Pigeons Flying Together: Flock, Kit, or Flight?
When you see a group of pigeons flying together, what you’re watching is called a:
- Flock – The most common term across all bird species.
- Kit – Used mainly for trained or homing pigeons.
- Flight – A more poetic alternative, often found in literature.
These birds don’t just fly together for fun. There’s a method behind the movement:
- 🛡️ Protection – Safety in numbers helps them dodge predators.
- 🧭 Navigation – They share directional cues during long flights.
- ❤️ Social bonds – Flying together reinforces group connection.
I once stood beneath a flock flying in tight formation during dusk. It looked like a living dance in the sky, mesmerizing.
A Kit of Pigeons: A Special Term for Trained Groups
So, what is a kit of pigeons?
In the world of pigeon racing and training, a kit is a small, tightly knit group of pigeons trained to fly together in synchronized patterns. These are often kept in a pigeon loft.
Key facts about a pigeon kit:
- Includes homing or roller pigeons
- Used in competitions and timed flights
- Requires daily training and a strict diet
A friend in the UK races a kit of Birmingham Rollers. Their mid-air acrobatics are more thrilling than a football match.
What Is a Group of Pigs Called? Just for Fun…
Birds aren’t the only ones with quirky group names. Let’s compare across the animal kingdom.
| Animal | Collective Noun |
| Pigeons | Flock, Kit, Loft, Flight |
| Pigs | A Sounder or Drift |
| Bats | A Cauldron |
| Doves | A Dule or Piteousness |
| Bears | A Sleuth or Sloth |
| Sparrows | A Host, Quarrel, or Flutter |
So next time someone asks, What is a group of pigs called?, you’ve got the trivia answer ready!
A Group of Bats Is Called a Cauldron, Spooky, Right?
Yes, really! When in flight, a group of bats is called a cauldron. When they’re resting, they’re referred to as a colony.
The spooky naming fits their nighttime habits and folklore associations. But bats, like pigeons, are misunderstood and incredibly important for insect control.
A Group of Bears Is Called a Sleuth or a Sloth, Slow and Steady
It might surprise you, but a group of bears is called a sleuth or a sloth. This reflects their slow and sneaky behaviors in the wild.
Compare that to pigeons, which are fast (up to 90 mph!) and always on the move, especially when food is involved.
What Is a Group of Sparrows Called? Fluttering Around with Unique Names
What is a group of sparrows called? You’ve got options!
- A “flutter” of sparrows
- A “quarrel” of sparrows
- A “host” of sparrows
These delicate names reflect their small size and energetic movements. Learn more about sparrow species to identify them better during your next birdwatching trip.
Why Group Names for Birds Matter
Knowing these names isn’t just for trivia night. Understanding collective nouns:
- Helps in scientific communication
- Reflects cultural relationships with nature
- Encourages curiosity about animal behavior
Whether you’re a birdwatcher, a poet, or just pigeon-curious, learning these terms opens a window into nature’s complexity and human creativity.
Bonus: Want to Raise a Kit or Loft of Pigeons? Here’s How
If reading this has sparked your interest in keeping pigeons, here’s a step-by-step guide to get started:
✅ Step 1: Buy a Safe and Spacious Loft
Check out Foys Pigeon Supplies or Jedds for quality lofts with weatherproofing and ventilation.
✅ Step 2: Start with 4–6 Healthy Birds
Buy from local breeders or reputable pigeon auctions. Start with a kit of young pigeons for easier training.
✅ Step 3: Feed Quality Grains & Vitamins
Use a mix of corn, wheat, peas, grit, and supplements. Explore Pigeon Vitality for top-rated boosters.
✅ Step 4: Train Them with Consistent Routines
Let them fly daily at the same time. Gradually increase the distance for homing pigeons.
One new keeper said, “Training my first kit taught me more about discipline and patience than anything else I’ve ever done.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is a herd of pigeons called?
A herd of pigeons is commonly referred to as a flock, not a herd, since “herd” is used for grazing animals.
Q2: What do you call a lot of pigeons?
A large group of pigeons is called a flock, although terms like kit, loft, or flight may also be used, depending on the context.
Q3: What is a flock of doves called?
A flock of doves is often called a dule, piteousness, or simply a flock.
Q4: Are pigeons in a flock?
Yes, pigeons naturally form flocks for safety, social bonding, and cooperative flight behavior.
Q5: What is a pack of pigeons called?
While “pack” is uncommon for birds, a group of pigeons is typically called a kit, loft, or flock.
Conclusion: So, What Do You Call a Group of Pigeons? It Depends!
You now know that “what do you call a group of pigeons?” has more than one answer:
- ✅ Flock – Most common term
- ✅ Kit – For trained groups
- ✅ Loft – For housed birds
- ✅ Flight – Poetic term
- ✅ Dropping/Plague/Passel – Humorous or informal
And beyond pigeons, you’ve now got trivia ammo for pigs, bats, bears, sparrows, and more.
Understanding these terms isn’t just educational, it’s a way to connect more deeply with animals and language. And if you’re thinking of raising your kit or loft, you’re in for an enriching, rewarding experience.