Sightings of woodpigeon soar in UK

New figures reveal this year has seen a record percentage of gardens visited by the portly species.

The British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) said woodpigeons are fast becoming the nation’s most spotted garden bird.

New results from the year-round BTO Garden Birdwatch survey show that 87 per cent of gardens have been visited during a typical week this year – more than by robins, great tits or house sparrows.

Nationally, only blue tits (90 per cent) and blackbirds (95 per cent) are seen in a larger percentage of gardens. And in some areas – including Hertfordshire, Nottinghamshire, Warwickshire, West Midlands and West Sussex – it appears that woodpigeons are already the most seen garden bird.

The BTO also revealed that woodpigeons are now reaching deep into Britain’s towns and cities, now being seen more often in suburban than in rural gardens.