Collared Dove
Streptopelia decaocto

RSPB Conservation Status – Green

Last seen – 1-2-23

The collared dove is a common sight in gardens and parks across the UK, with its distinctive pinkish-grey plumage and black collar making it easily recognizable.

The wings are brownish-grey with a white patch, and the tail is tipped with white.

Collared doves are not native to the UK, but were introduced in the 1950s and 60s, and have since become one of the most common bird species in the country.

Facts

Population – Around 800,000 breeding pairs

Length – 30 – 32 cm

Wingspan – 50 – 55 cm

Weight – 150 – 250 g

Breeding

Collared doves breed throughout the year, but mainly between March and September, with peaks in May and June.

They build flimsy nests made of twigs and grass, often in trees or shrubs, but also on buildings and other man-made structures.

The female lays two eggs, which both parents incubate for around 14 days.

The chicks fledge at around 17-19 days old.

Habitat

Collared doves are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, including gardens, parks, farmland, and woodland edges.

They are particularly fond of areas with a mix of open ground and trees or shrubs, where they can find both food and shelter.

 

Food

Collared doves are seed-eaters, and their diet consists mainly of cereal grains, such as wheat and barley, as well as oilseed rape and sunflower seeds.

They will also feed on berries and other fruits, and occasionally insects.

If you have seen a Collared Dove, please let us know via our survey page.