Most pigeons are small to medium-sized birds. The rock pigeon, the familiar city pigeon, is about 35 cm long with a wingspan of about 60 cm and weighs 240 to 380 g. Sizes across the pigeon family vary widely, from the Valencian Figurita at about 12 cm to the Victoria crowned pigeon at about 74 cm and 3.5 kg.
The following table highlights just how wide the spectrum of size is and how much difference there can be in certain pigeon sizes:
| Length | Wingspan | Weight | |
| Valencian Figurita | 12cm | 30cm | 150 – 190 g |
| White-Crowned Pigeon | 35cm | 59cm | 150-300 g |
| Rock Pigeon | 35cm | 60cm | 240-380 g |
| King Pigeon | 40cm | 72cm | 900+ g |
| Victoria Crowned Pigeon | 74cm | 72cm | 3.5 kg |
This data showcases just how different both ends of the spectrum are with the tiny Valencian Figurita versus the mighty Victoria Crowned Pigeon.
It is, however, best to discount the Victoria Crowned Pigeon as being anywhere near the average because it really is a huge example compared to the rest of the birds in the Columbidae family.
The reality is that most birds within the pigeon family are going to share similar size characteristics as the two breeds listed in the middle of the table.
There is certainly diversity within the pigeon family, but in the grand scheme of things, the White-Crowned Pigeon and Rock Pigeon are more representatives of the average.
The Rock Pigeon is also known as the common pigeon or feral/wild pigeon or city pigeon and is the one we would most easily recognize and also see every day.
It is the most widespread pigeon species in the world and one of the world’s most familiar birds, found on every continent except Antarctica.
Size is a key factor for pigeon fanciers for certain breeds.
The Giant Runt, for example, was originally selectively bred to produce a big table bird for meat and due to its natural size, the King pigeon is also seen as a meat bird.
The smaller birds such as the Valencian Figurita are mainly produced as show birds, while the littlest Portuguese tumblers are prized for their flying abilities both in terms of speed and agility.
Last updated 31 October 2026 · Facts