European Populations of the Rock Dove Columba livia and Genotypic Extinction

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Abstract
We propose that the gene pool of Eurpoean populations of the rock dove is being compromised by feral pigeons, which have a significantly different genetics. The hybridization, with gene flow from ferals to wild birds and attendant loss of genetic identity of the latter, can be difficult to detect morphologically, behaviorally, or ecologically but is quantified by allozyme electrophoresis. Similar instances of hybridization in birds are discussed to show parralles with rock doves and feral pigeons. Such a threat to the genetics of the rock dove, an endangered species in Europe, can be countered by regenerating geographic isolation of rock dove populations from those of ferals.

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