Columbiformes (pigeons and doves) currently rank as one of the most threatened avian orders in the world - a consequence of a range of pressures including habitat loss and degradation, invasive alien species, hunting and climate change. A determination to reverse this worrying trend was the impetus behind the creation of the IUCN SSC Pigeon and Dove Specialist Group (PDSG). Key activities of the Group will include collaborating with Birdlife International to assess and monitor the status of Columbiform species, raising the profile of threatened pigeons and doves, and convening expertise for conservation. We intend to draft action plans for priority species, will seek to source the funding required for the implementation of these plans, and will prioritize monitoring and evaluation of conservation efforts.