Pigeons are basically filthy birds that often carry diseases
. They can be very aggressive, going after pets and children for food. They often feed in flocks, devouring seeds, bread, vegetables, meat and almost any food discarded by humans. They roost together in buildings, on rooftops, in nooks and crannies of walls and near ponds and water fountains--which they quickly contaminate with their droppings. They can reach speeds of up to 50 mph and can out maneuver a predator hawk. Pigeons are also among the most intelligent birds on Earth.