Germany · Schleswig- Holstein · Dithmarschen

Columba palumbus ?Alternative name:
Common Wood Pigeon
Columba palumbus

July: Hatching. Chicks begin to hatch, and parents feed them insects.

Photo Hunting Cooking

Completely harmless. Large forest pigeon. Common bird in Europe and Asia. Frequently appears in hunting cuisine.

Inhabits deciduous and mixed forests. Feeds on seeds, fruits, and buds. Has a characteristic deep cooing call.

Walk-up hunting in open fields and forest edges Use of calls and decoys Best times are early morning and late evening

Found in flocks at feeding sites, cautious. Camouflage and quiet approach needed. Approach with wind in your face.

Feathers removed after scalding. Meat is tender, handle carefully. Cool carcass immediately after dressing. Meat is edible, valued by hunters.

Breast: Frying, braising
Thigh: Braising, soup
Whole bird: Roasting whole

Fried Wood Pigeon with Herbs (Pan-fry)
Tender meat with aromatic herbs

1. Marinate meat with garlic and rosemary.
2. Fry until golden brown.
3. Serve with vegetables or rice.

Braised Wood Pigeon with Vegetables (Braising)
Rich flavor and tender texture

1. Brown meat until crust forms.
2. Add vegetables and braise for 40 minutes.
3. Serve with mashed potatoes or grains.

Roasted Wood Pigeon with Lemon (Roasting)
Tangy fresh flavor with citrus notes

1. Rub carcass with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
2. Roast at 180°C (350°F) for 1 hour.
3. Serve with herbs and fresh vegetables.

Wood Pigeon Vegetable Soup (Boiling)
Hearty and nourishing soup

1. Make broth from bones.
2. Add vegetables and cook until tender.
3. Garnish with herbs.