Collared Dove

Common name: Collared Dove
Scientific name: Streptopelia decaocto
Group: Doves and pigeons
Where seen: Gardens, streets, parks, farms, allotments and around buildings
Garden status: Common visitor, often seen in pairs

Quick ID:
A slim, pale grey-beige dove with a long tail and a distinctive black half-collar on the back of the neck. Much lighter and more delicate-looking than a woodpigeon or many feral pigeons.

Look for:
Pale sandy-grey body, small dark bill, long tapered tail and the neat black neck collar. Often seen perched on roofs, fences, feeders or walking on the ground.

Behaviour:
Usually calm and gentle in behaviour. Often arrives in pairs. Feeds mostly on seeds, grain and spilled food beneath feeders. More comfortable on bird tables, trays, walls and the ground than on hanging feeders.

Kitchen garden note:
Generally not a major problem, but like other pigeons and doves it may eat seeds or young growth if crops are left uncovered. Protect vulnerable seedlings, peas, beans and brassicas with mesh, fleece or netting.

Feeder food:
Seed mixes, grain, sunflower hearts and spilled seed beneath feeders.

Good for wildlife watching:
Yes. A common bird, but well worth noticing properly. Its pale colouring, soft manner and paired behaviour make it a lovely garden visitor.

Suggested card excerpt:
A pale, elegant garden dove with a neat black neck collar, often seen in pairs around feeders, rooftops and kitchen gardens.