Abstract
Sexual dimorphism is slight in Woodpigeons Columba palumbus. Although it is generally believed that males are somewhat larger than females, there is considerable overlap between the sexes. Recent studies have highlighted the use of discriminant function analysis in determining the sex of sexually monomorphic birds such as seabirds. This study examines whether discriminant analyses can be used to determine the sex of Woodpigeons. Analysis of 298 adult Woodpigeons showed significant differences in some morphological features of male and female birds. The measurement of the variables tail and tibio‐tarsus demonstrated that 66% of the entire data set could be accurately sexed. When results were examined on a seasonal basis, spring results (using wing and tibio‐tarsus) were most accurate, correctly sexing 90% of females and 86% of males. Winter samples, using weight and tail measurements, were the least accurate, correctly identifying 57% of females and 65% of males.
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