Columba livia, also known as the rock pigeon or common pigeon, is a species of bird native to Europe and parts of Asia. It is one of the most widespread and abundant species of bird in the world, living in a variety of habitats such as cities, towns, parks and gardens. Columba livia are medium-sized birds with short necks and small heads. Their plumage is typically greyish-blue but there are many variations in colour among different populations. The tail feathers have white bars at their tips which give them their distinctive appearance when seen from below during flight.