Lost a cock last week and his hen seems… depressed? She sits fluffed up, not eating much, doesn’t interact with other birds.
Physically she seems healthy. No respiratory signs, droppings okay.
Can pigeons grieve? Am I projecting human emotions onto her?
Pigeons DO form strong pair bonds and show behavioral changes when mates die.
What you’re describing - withdrawal, reduced appetite, lethargy - is well documented in bonded birds after loss.
It’s not exactly “grief” as humans experience it, but there’s definitely a stress response to losing a mate.
She should recover over time. Keep her with the flock, make sure she’s eating something. Consider pairing her with a new mate when she seems ready (usually 2-4 weeks).
I’ve seen this many times. Some birds bounce back quickly, others take weeks.
What helps:
You’re not projecting. Birds have emotions, just different from ours.
Had a hen mope for nearly a month after her cock died. Refused to pair with anyone else.
Finally introduced a young cock who persistently courted her. She gave in eventually and they bred fine.
Some birds need time. Others need motivation. Feel out what she needs.