Eurasian Collared Dove

Overview

The Eurasian collared dove (Streptopelia decaocto) is a medium-sized dove species native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It is a strongly dispersive bird that has expanded its range significantly, colonising parts of North America and other regions far beyond its original distribution.

Identification

• Grey-buff to pinkish-grey plumage with a black half-collar edged with white on the nape.
• Medium-sized bird approximately 32 cm long with red legs, a black bill, and blue-grey underwing patches.
• Distinctive three-syllable call, described as goo-GOO-goo, with stress on the second syllable.
• A harsh, loud screeching call lasting about two seconds is often heard during flight, just before landing.

Habitat

Native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, the species is resident in regions ranging from Scandinavia to the Levant and Central Asia. It has been introduced to North and Central America, select Caribbean islands, and locally to Japan. The dove typically breeds close to human habitation, with nests almost always located within one kilometre of inhabited buildings.

Diet

The Eurasian collared dove feeds on grain, seeds, shoots, and insects, often foraging near farms where spilt grain is abundant or at bird feeders. It is a gregarious species that forms winter flocks around food supplies, which can range from small groups of 10–50 individuals to massive gatherings of up to 10,000. It can drink by lowering its head rather than scooping water and tipping its head back.

Did you know?

The scientific name decaocto is Greek for 'eighteen', stemming from a myth in which the bird was created by Zeus to complain about a maid's low annual wage of 18 silver coins. The bird's three-syllable call is considered an onomatopoeia for the number 18 in several Balkan languages.