European Turtle Dove

Overview

The European turtle dove is a threatened member of the pigeon family that breeds across much of the western Palearctic and migrates to northern sub-Saharan Africa for winter. It is currently listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Smaller and more slender than other doves, measuring 26–28 cm in length with a wingspan of 47–53 cm.
• Distinctive black-and-white striped patch on the side of the neck and a blue-grey head, neck, flanks and rump.
• Cinnamon-coloured wings mottled with black, a vinaceous breast, white abdomen and white undertail coverts.
• A wedge-shaped tail with a dark centre and white borders and tips; a deep, vibrating 'turrr' song is used to herald spring arrival.

Habitat

This migratory species occupies a western Palearctic range covering most of Europe and the Middle East, including Turkey and north Africa, while wintering south of the Sahara. It prefers open woodlands to dense ones and is extremely timid.

Diet

The bird often feeds on the ground and relies heavily on weed seeds and shoots, especially fumitory, for sustenance.

Did you know?

The name 'turtle' is unrelated to the reptile of the same name; it derives from the Latin 'turtur', which is onomatopoeic for the bird's song.