Question

[u8myufo]

Does anybody have any idea why a wood pigeons pupil is shaped the way it is and not spherical? Cannot say I have noticed this with any other species but there may well be.

 

[Gav.]

I think Iris shape is normally link to FoV, so could enable better view through grasses and trees

 

[JohnX]

Mumtaztic Pigeon Loft - Pigeon Genetics - Pigeon Eye Colors

Might help? Someone at the Natural History Museum answered a similar query by stating the iris is circular but doesn't appear so because of pigmentation in the eye.

 

[gramps]

As above ... it appears that it is in fact round but appears not to be so by reason of a black pigment on the iris ... rspb blog:-

Hi Paul, I am in regular contact with Hein van Grouw, Senior Curator, Bird Group at the Natural History Museum, so I e-mailed him. This is his reply:

Thanks for your email. Yes, wood pigeons seem to have non-circular pupils. The pupil, however is circular but due to a spot of dark pigment in the iris the pupil seems to be non-circular. I have no idea what the reason (advantage) is for this. What I do know is that several other (tropical) species, mainly Fruit Doves, have it too.

 

[Gav.]

Everyday is school day

 

[Deleted member 34016]

Everyday is school day

Just how old are you Gav ( still at school?)

 

[u8myufo]

Well that`s that cleared up then, tune in tomorrow for more wildlife mysteries.

 

[john.margetts]

Many animals have irises that are not round: cats have slits, goats have squares. The reason? An evolutionary advantage selected for that shape.

 

[u8myufo]

Many animals have irises that are not round: cats have slits, goats have squares. The reason? An evolutionary advantage selected for that shape.

That I realise John, but like I say I have never noticed it in any other bird I have photographed or seen.