Thermoregulation: Pigeons, like many birds, lack sweat glands and rely on different mechanisms to regulate their body temperature. One of these mechanisms is shivering or shaking. By rapidly contracting and relaxing their muscles, pigeons can generate heat to maintain their ideal body temperature, especially during colder weather or when they are wet. This shivering behavior helps them conserve heat and stay warm.
Communication: Pigeons use body movements and gestures as a form of communication. Shaking can be a signal to other pigeons, often indicating excitement, agitation, or a desire to be fed. By shaking their bodies or tails, pigeons may be conveying messages to their flock mates or potential mates.
Preening: Pigeons engage in preening behavior to maintain their feathers and keep their bodies clean. During preening, pigeons might shake their body to dislodge dirt, parasites, or other particles from their feathers. This shaking helps them maintain their plumage in good condition and promotes hygiene.
Stress: In certain situations, pigeons might shake as a response to stress or anxiety. Stressful events, such as being handled by humans, being confined, or facing predators, can cause pigeons to shake. Shaking can be a physical manifestation of their emotional discomfort.
Injury or Illness: In some cases, shaking might be a sign of an underlying medical condition or injury. If you observe abnormal shaking or any other unusual behavior in a pigeon, it's important to consult a veterinarian or expert for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Remember, while shaking is often associated with natural behaviors, it's essential to consider the context and any additional symptoms to accurately determine the reason why pigeons shake.