Identification
Length: 28cm

Resembles a small slender Wood pigeon but their plumage is more sober in colouration. They are a grey-brown colour with a tinge of pink below, particularly on the breast. The wing tips are a grey-brown colour. The distinctive marking of the Collard Dove is the black half collar around the neck. The primary coverts of a Collard Dove are grey-blue. Their bills are grey-black and they have dark pink legs.

Call
Male's call is a persistent tri syllabic 'coo-roo-coo-coockoo' which is reminiscent of the Wood pigeon's call, the accent is on the middle syllable.

Reproduction
Breeding begins in March, but may be prolonged until September. They build flat nests of twigs mainly on conifers but also on other trees, or very occasionally on the ledge of a building. Two drab yellow-white eggs are laid. The Collard Dove may breed twice or more (up to five times). Both parents incubate the eggs for approximately fifteen days.

Habitat
Lives in regions with scattered trees and bushes, mainly in cultivated or urban areas.

Natural Food
Mainly grain and seeds, also fruits and berries.

Where to Feed
Ground Feed - Scatter food in the open
Table Feeder - Open topped

Suitable Wild Bird Food from the Shop
Ark Wild Bird Mix
Ark Wild Bird XTRA
Ark 'No Grow' Scatter Food
Ark 'No Grow' Scatter XTRA
Ark 'All-Purpose' Mix
Ark Songbird Softbill
Ark Songbird Softbill with Insects

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