Kashmir, often referred to as ‘Paradise on Earth,’ is home to a rich variety of bird species, each contributing to the valley’s breathtaking natural beauty. Among these avian inhabitants, the Rock Pigeon in Srinagar holds a unique place. These pigeons, known for their resilience, adaptability, and symbolic presence, are a vital part of the region’s urban and cultural heritage. Whether seen flocking around historical sites, fluttering over Dal Lake, or being fed by locals at shrines, Rock Pigeons are an inseparable part of Kashmir’s daily life.
Rock Pigeon in Srinagar
Appearance and Identification
The Rock Pigeon is a medium-sized bird with a stout body and smooth plumage. The typical coloration is bluish-grey with two distinct black bars on its wings and an iridescent patch of green and purple around its neck. However, the pigeons in Srinagar often exhibit varied plumage patterns, ranging from pure white to black, a result of centuries of urban cohabitation and domestication.
Habitat in Srinagar and Kashmir
Unlike many other birds that prefer deep forests or remote valleys, Rock Pigeons have adapted remarkably well to urban environments. In Srinagar, they are commonly found:
- At Historical Landmarks: The Mughal-era Jama Masjid, the Shankaracharya Temple, and the Hazratbal Shrine are frequently visited by large flocks of pigeons. Visitors and devotees often feed them grains, adding to the serene and spiritual ambiance.
- Near Water Bodies: The Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake host thousands of pigeons, often seen perching on wooden shikaras (houseboats) or along the ghats.
- In Public Parks: Locations like Naseem Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, and Chashme Shahi are rich with pigeon activity.
- On Rooftops and Marketplaces: The old city area of Zaina Kadal, Maharaj Gunj, and Lal Chowk provides pigeons with plenty of food and shelter, making them an everyday sight for locals and tourists alike.
Cultural and Religious Significance
In Kashmir, the Rock Pigeon is not just another bird; it carries a deep cultural and religious significance. Pigeons have long been associated with peace and spirituality, making them a revered species among locals.
- Symbol of Peace: Kashmir, having witnessed political turmoil for decades, often sees the pigeon as a sign of hope and peaceful coexistence.
- Sacred Birds: At shrines such as Hazratbal Dargah, where a sacred relic of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is preserved, pigeons are often considered spiritual creatures. Pilgrims feed them as an act of goodwill.
- Aesthetic and Poetic Inspiration: Kashmir’s rich literary tradition, including the works of Mahjoor and Habba Khatoon, frequently uses pigeons as metaphors for longing, freedom, and divine love.
Diet and Feeding Habits
Rock Pigeons in Srinagar have access to a varied diet, thanks to their coexistence with humans. Their diet mainly includes:
- Grains like wheat, rice, and corn, which are often provided by shopkeepers and devotees outside mosques.
- Seeds and berries found in the city’s many gardens.
- Scraps from bakeries selling Kashmiri bread (Tsot, Lavasa, and Sheermal). This easy access to food has resulted in large pigeon populations thriving across the city.
Breeding and Nesting in Urban Kashmir
Unlike migratory birds that visit Kashmir seasonally, Rock Pigeons are year-round residents. Their breeding habits are well-suited to city life, with nesting sites found in old buildings, bridges, and mosque domes.
- They lay eggs throughout the year, with peak breeding in spring and summer.
- Their nests, often made of twigs and leaves, are found in sheltered spots like wooden rafters in Kashmiri homes or inside minarets of mosques.
- A pair usually raises two chicks per clutch, and due to the abundant food sources, survival rates in Srinagar are quite high.
Pigeon Keeping and Racing in Kashmir
In Srinagar, pigeon keeping (Kabootar Bazi) is a popular pastime, with enthusiasts raising and training pigeons for aerial acrobatics.
- Traditional Breeding: Many old Srinagar households have pigeon lofts, a legacy passed down for generations.
- Pigeon Races: Some locals engage in pigeon flying competitions, where trained pigeons are released and expected to return home in the shortest time.
- Symbol of Prestige: Owning exotic breeds of pigeons, like the Persian Highflyer, is seen as a status symbol among bird lovers in the city.
Challenges and Conservation
Despite their strong numbers, Rock Pigeons in Srinagar face some challenges:
- Urban Pollution: Rising air pollution and construction activities disturb their nesting sites.
- Predators: Birds of prey such as the Eurasian Sparrowhawk and Common Kestrel, found in Kashmir, prey on pigeons, reducing their numbers in some areas.
- Health Risks: Overcrowding in urban areas can lead to disease transmission, affecting both pigeons and humans.
However, conservation efforts, including feeding programs at religious sites and pigeon-friendly urban planning, help maintain their population. In recent years, wildlife enthusiasts in Kashmir have advocated for more awareness about sustainable feeding practices to ensure pigeons remain healthy and do not become dependent on human-provided food.
Final Thoughts
The Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) is more than just a bird in Srinagar and Kashmir; it is an enduring symbol of history, culture, and peace. From the bustling streets of Lal Chowk to the serene shores of Dal Lake, these birds have woven themselves into the very fabric of Kashmiri life. Whether seen as messengers of peace, spiritual companions at shrines, or simply urban dwellers enjoying the beauty of the valley, Rock Pigeons continue to thrive in Kashmir’s enchanting landscapes.
Their presence in Srinagar serves as a reminder of the region’s deep connection with nature and its ability to blend the old with the new. As long as the pigeons continue to soar over the Mughal gardens, glide over the Jhelum River, and rest upon the domes of grand mosques, they will remain an inseparable part of Kashmir’s living heritage.
Read: House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) in Kashmir: A Symbol of Nature and Harmony
